Warning for Pakistan as 6 positive in Covid tests

Six Pakistan cricketers have tested positive for Covid-19 while the Government has given the entire team a “final warning” for breaching rules in managed isolation in Christchurch.

The development has thrown the team’s preparation for their upcoming Twenty20 and test series against the Black Caps into turmoil.

New Zealand Cricket (NZC) yesterday confirmed the players had returned the positive tests while in managed isolation and will be moved into the quarantine arm of the facility — in line with Government protocol.

Two of these six results have been deemed “historical”; four have been confirmed as new.

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

Separately, NZC has also been made aware that some members of the 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 NZC statement said.

Pakistan are set to face the Black Caps in three T20 internationals and two tests, with the first match on December 18.

The Ministry of Health revealed that several team members have been seen on CCTV at the facility breaching managed isolation rules, despite “clear, consistent and detailed communication of expected behaviours while in the facility”.

A ministry statement said the team as a whole have been issued with a final warning.

All members of the team returned a negative Covid-19 test and passed a symptom check before departing Lahore.

Fifty-three members of the squad arrived in Christchurch on Tuesday this week and were tested on day one, with the six cases coming as a result of the tests.

All cases are being moved to quarantine rooms within the facility at the Chateau on the Park hotel. Team members will be tested at least four times while in managed isolation.

The medical officer of health at the Canterbury District Health Board has sent a letter to the squad’s management to be communicated to the whole team, reinforcing that all team members are required to stay in their rooms until advised otherwise.

Director general of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said any breaches of managed isolation rules were taken very seriously.

“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.”