Pakistani team released from quarantine in New Zealand
The Pakistan cricket squad has been allowed to leave managed isolation to begin its preparation for Twenty20 and Test series against New Zealand. All members of the squad tested negative on the 12th day of their 14-day stay; in isolation and were allowed to travel to the South Island resort of Queenstown; where they can now train as a group.
The team’s exemption to train in smaller groups after the third day in isolation was revoked by New Zealand health authorities when players breached protocols by mingling in corridors and sharing food. Six members of the 53-strong squad tested positive for Covid-19 on arrival and two more subsequently returned positive tests and were moved to the quarantine wing of their hotel.
Earlier, New Zealand’s Ministry of Health reported 52 members of the Pakistan squad would be released from the quarantine facilities in Christchurch.
Life and smiles after quarantine @iamzafargohar @HarisRauf14 @iMusaKhan @iFaheemAshraf @HussainTallat12 @RealImranButt @iamhaideraly pic.twitter.com/GDXMDZCOwn
— Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) December 8, 2020
“One case will remain in the Christchurch quarantine facility until fully recovered,” the ministry said in a statement. “One person repeatedly tested negative and is being released from the Auckland quarantine facility today; where they had been transferred on arrival as a precaution.”
The person was reported to have shown symptoms of Covid after arriving in New Zealand from Dubai. But has since tested negative.
“After extensive testing and completion of their time in managed isolation in Christchurch; the medical officer of health is satisfied these people pose a very low risk to the community,” the ministry said.
Head coach Misbahul Haq earlier was quoted as saying the players had suffered “mentally and physically” during their time in isolation.
“Top professional athletes require a certain environment to prepare so that they can perform at the minimum expected levels every time they represent their countries,” Misbah said in a statement issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
He said Pakistan players and officials respect and understand; the health and safety regulations implemented in New Zealand to protect the community against Covid-19.
