Select the correct direct narration of the given sentence.
The government admits that the number of Covid-19 cases is on the rise.

A

“The number of Covid-19 cases is on the rise,” the government admits.

B

“The number of Covid-19 cases will be on the rise,” the government says.

C

“The number of Covid-19 cases was on the rise,” the government admits.

D

“The number of Covid-19 cases has been rising,” the government said.