Six members of Pakistan squad test positive for Covid-19

As a result, those players have been moved from managed isolation into quarantine. The team’s exemption from social distancing regulations has also been suspended, along with permission to train, until investigations have been completed

Six members of Pakistan’s touring squad in New Zealand have tested positive for Covid-19.

As a result, those players have been moved from managed isolation into quarantine. The team’s exemption from social distancing regulations has also been suspended, along with permission to train, until investigations have been completed.

West Indies, who are also in New Zealand ahead of their series which begins on Friday, were also briefly banned from training after they breached guidance on managed isolation by mingling with one another.

Every member of Pakistan’s 53-strong visiting party was tested upon arrival in New Zealand, whose response to the global coronavirus pandemic has been widely lauded. Prior to leaving Pakistan, every tourist was tested four times in Lahore, all returning negative results.

Of the six positive tests recorded, two were deemed to be “historic”, with four others new.

A statement from New Zealand Cricket added: “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.

“NZC considers public health and safety to be paramount in the hosting of international teams and is supportive of the ministry of health and government position.”

Pakistan are scheduled to play two Tests and three T20Is against their hosts.

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