Six Pakistan cricketers test positive for COVID, training put on hold

CHRISTCHURCH (PTI):

Six touring Pakistan cricketers have tested positive for COVID-19, New Zealand Cricket announced on Thursday, alleging a breach of the bio-secure protocol by the visitors who have been asked not train in quarantine and issued a "final warning".

"Two of these six results have been deemed 'historical'; four have been confirmed as new," NZC said in a statement without revealing the names of the players who have tested positive for the dreaded virus.

All six members will be moved to the quarantine arm of a managed isolation facility. Pakistan is there for three T20 Internationals and two Tests. The series begins December 18 in Auckland.

"As a consequence, the Pakistan team's exemption to train while in managed isolation has been put on hold until investigations have been completed," the NZC stated.

ALSO READ:

Also Read: Militant attack in J-K, two security personnel killed

According to New Zealand media, the Canterbury District Health Board's medical officer of health has sent a letter to the squad's management saying all team members must stay in their rooms until further advised.

"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," Bloomfield was quoted as saying by stuff.co.nz.

"The team as a whole has been issued with a final warning," he said.

At least 10 Pakistan cricketers had tested positive for COVID-19 before the team's England tour earlier this year.

Prior to leaving Lahore, all members of the Pakistan squad returned negative results on the four occasions they were tested.

In addition to the senior squad, Pakistan's A team is also here to compete in a couple of four-day matches beginning December 10. (PTI)

ALSO WATCH: