Mohammad Hafeez To Isolate After Breaching Bio-Security Protocol

Veteran Pakistan batsman Mohammad Hafeez has been isolated from the squad for breaching bio-security protocols after he posed for a photo with a member of the public. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the development through a press release on Wednesday (August 12).

Earlier in the day, Mohammad Hafeez had posted a photo of himself along with another person on Twitter that was clicked on a golf course, adjacent to the team hotel at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. After that, he undertook a Covid-19 test and the result of the test is expected on Thursday.

“This morning, Mohammad Hafeez went to a golf course, which is adjacent to the team hotel and part of the bio-secure bubble. During the golf round, he was photographed with a member of the public, which he subsequently posted on his social media account,” the release said.

“As it was evident from the photograph that Hafeez had breached the two-metre social distancing protocol and following a consultation process with the team doctor, the team management has decided to isolate him until he returns a negative Covid-19 test. Hafeez underwent the Covid-19 test late Wednesday afternoon and the result is expected at some stage on Thursday.

“The decision to put Hafeez in isolation has been taken for his and the safety and security of everyone around him. The team management believes it was an inadvertent mistake, but a good reminder for everyone on the importance of following the bio-secure protocols, which have been designed for the health and safety of everyone involved in the series. The team management has updated the England and Wales Cricket Board of its decision,” added the release.

Before touring England, the veteran allrounder had tested positive for Covid-19. However, he decided to get tested privately and the result turned out to be negative. Following that, he underwent two more tests and both times, the results were negative. Consequently, he was allowed to be a part of the squad for the ongoing tour. He is not a part of Pakistan’s Test squad but is expected to play in the T20I series.

Meanwhile, Pakistan are trailing the ongoing Test series after losing the series-opener in Manchester by three wickets. The second match of the series gets underway on Thursday.

Also Read: Report: ICC Book Two Backup Venues For The 2021 T20 World Cup

Also Read: Michael Vaughan Predicts The Result Of The Ongoing Test Series Between England And Pakistan