PM backs NSW decision for Sydney test

The number of unlinked Covid-19 cases in Sydney will help determine whether the SCG is at 50 per cent capacity for the third cricket test, which Prime Minister Scott Morrison says he would love to attend.

NSWreported three new cases of Covid-19 community transmission yesterday.

However, all three cases are from western Sydney and yet to be linked to the cluster on the northern beaches.

The state is also concerned sewage testing inWollongong has picked up fragments of the virus.

The four-test series between Australia and India resumes at the SCG on Thursday, with Cricket Australia’s board opting against a late change to its schedule.

The NSWgovernment remains confident fans will be able to attend the match.

NSWOpposition leader JodiMcKay, health expert Norman Swan and some epidemiologists have questioned whether that is wise.

But the state’s stance drew support from the highest office in the country on New Year’s Day.

‘‘I have great confidence in the decisions the NSWgovernment is making in relation to these matters,’’ Morrison told reporters.

‘‘Whatever level of crowd they ultimately decide is appropriate for that public event, I am sure will be based on health advice.

‘‘On that basis, I’mcomfortable with those decisions.

’’If I was in Sydney, I would love to go there and sing the national anthem in its new form.’’

Border restrictions will likely ensure Morrison does not attend the third test.

Morrison said he had exchanged text messages with Australia’s captain TimPaine and coach Justin Langer yesterday, when the health crisis ensured there was no Kirribilli meet and greet with the test squad.

Current restrictions will allow cricket fans to attend the SCG, provided they are not from certain postcodes and agree to wear amask when not seated.