6 Members Of Pakistan Squad In New Zealand Test Positive For Covid-19

In what comes as shocking news, six players of the Pakistan cricket team’s touring party have been tested positive for coronavirus, New Zealand Cricket said on Thursday.

The Pakistani cricket team is currently quarantining in Christchurch and according to the statement released by NZC, two of the six results have been deemed ‘historical’ while four have been confirmed.

As a result, Pakistan’s exemption to train while in isolation has been put on hold for now.

”This means that, in line with the protocols governing the squad’s entry into New Zealand, the six members of the squad will be moved to the quarantine arm of the managed isolation facility,” NZC said in a statement.

“As a consequence, the Pakistan team’s exemption to train while in managed isolation has been put on hold until investigations have been completed.”

Few members of the Pakistan team breached protocols- NZC

Before leaving Lahore, all members of the 53-strong squad had returned negative for Covid-19 in four different rounds of testing. However, New Zealand Cricket, in the same statement, has revealed that a few members of the touring party have been breached the protocols on the first day of managed isolation.

“Separately, NZC has also been made aware that some members of the Pakistan team had contravened protocols on the first day of managed isolation. We will be having discussions with the tourists to assist them in understanding the requirements,” the statement further added.

The Minister of Health backed NZC’s statement, adding the CCTV footage is clear evidence of a few members contravening the protocols despite ‘clear instructions’.

“Several team members have been seen on CCTV at the facility breaching managed isolation rules, despite clear, consistent, and detailed communication of expected behaviors while in the facility,” the Ministry of Health said.

Dr. Ashley Bloomfield, Director-General of Health, said that the Pakistan squad has been issued a final warning.

“It is a privilege to come to New Zealand to play sport, but in return teams must stick to the rules that are designed to keep Covid-19 out of our communities and keep our staff safe.”he added.