Australian officials issued a statement explaining that although McGrath tested positive and showed mild symptoms, she was allowed to play after consultation with team and competition officials, along with the Commonwealth Games Federation Results Analysis Clinical Expert Group.
“McGrath presented to team management on Sunday with mild symptoms and then returned the positive test,” said Commonwealth Games Australia (CGA). “She was named in the starting XI in the toss and the International Cricket Council (ICC) approved her entry into the final.
“In consultation with the CGF (Commonwealth Games Federation) and the ICC, Cricket Australia’s medical staff has implemented a series of comprehensive protocols that will be followed during the match and for post-match activities to reduce the risk of transmission to all players and officials. minimalize. .
“The CGA has maintained a comprehensive COVID-19 risk mitigation strategy for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, with testing protocols going beyond those required by the Birmingham 2022 Organizing Committee.”
The CGA did not outline what protocols were in place and would not comment further.
“I think it was handled extremely well from Australia’s point of view,” said Australian batter Beth Mooney, her gold medal around her neck. “Because they had protocols and made sure everyone on the team felt comfortable that she was playing, they did the right things.
“Of course it got a bit hairy there for a while towards the toss, but I think it’s no different when someone is playing and they have a cold or the flu.
“From my perspective, the right decision was made and we just went out and played it.
“It wasn’t something under our control. The people who get paid to make those decisions made them.”
McGrath didn’t line up with her teammates during the national anthems. However, she came out without wearing a face mask.
She was Australia’s top points scorer in Birmingham when she reached the final, but against India she only dealt four balls before being sacked for two.
When McGrath left the field, she did not return to the dugout. She sat separately from her teammates.
“It was unusual, but we have our doctor on tour and we just listened to what she said,” said Australian all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner. “She said it was safe for her to play, of course we didn’t hang out with her so we all felt safe enough there.
“It was just one of those things that had to happen to someone in this league and unfortunately it was her.”