Kent Cricket have announced that the Kent Spitfires vs. Suffolk National County Match, scheduled to take place at The County Ground, Beckenham on Tuesday 20 July, has been cancelled.

The Club’s current COVID situation means that the fixture will now not be able to be fulfilled, and Kent Cricket have thanked the players, staff and Members of Suffolk County Cricket Club for their understanding.

The match was originally due to be held at Copdock & Old Ipswichian CC in 2020, but was cancelled due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

It was then switched to Beckenham, where the Spitfires will host their Royal London Cup group games this Summer, with National Counties unable to meet the COVID regulations and guidance that are required to stage such a game.

Kent Cricket’s CEO, Simon Storey, said: “Everyone was looking forward to the challenge of facing Suffolk on Tuesday, but, regrettably, we have now contacted them to inform them of our decision.

“The safety of our players, staff, Members and spectators remains the Club’s top priority; with recent statements from the Club outlining our swift and decisive actions to ensure the safety of all.”

Suffolk CCC’s Chairman, Andrew Squire, said: “Whilst disappointing for all concerned, we fully understand and respect Kent’s decision.

“Our players were looking forward to playing at The County Ground, Beckenham and testing themselves against high-class opposition.

“We very much hope to fulfil the fixture next season on a Suffolk ground and send our best wishes to Kent for the remainder of this season.”

Spectators that have purchased tickets to the Suffolk match will be contacted by the Club via e-mail in due course.

Kent Spitfires’ Royal London Cup campaign begins with the visit of Durham to Beckenham on Thursday 22 July.