England all-rounder Moeen Ali has tested positive for the novel coronavirus upon his arrival at Sri Lanka ahead of the two-match Test series that begins on January 14.

Moeen Ali will remain isolated for ten days, as will fast bowler Chris Woakes who apparently remained in close contact with Ali. As soon as the England squad arrived at the airport in Hambantota, they were tested for the virus. Moeen Ali, who has self-isolated, is likely to miss the first Test owing to the Sri Lankan government's Covid-19 protocols. "Following PCR tests administered on arrival at the airport in Hambantota on Sunday 3rd January, The England and Wales Cricket Board can confirm that Moeen Ali has tested positive for COVID-19. Ali will now observe a period of 10-days self-isolation, in accordance with the Sri Lanka Government's protocol on quarantine," the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) mentioned in a statement on Monday.

It is yet to be ascertained whether Moeen Ali contracted the mutant coronavirus strain from the UK. "Chris Woakes has been deemed as a possible close contact, and he will observe a period of self-isolation and further testing. The touring party will be PCR tested for a second time on Tuesday morning. At this stage, the team will train for the first time on Wednesday," the ECB added. While the first Test is scheduled to begin on January 14, the second Test will happen from January 22 - 26.