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'Disgrace': Outrage after Pakistan brings COVID-19 into New Zealand

sam goodwin
Sports Editor
·4-min read
Pakistan players, pictured here in action during a one-day international against Zimbabwe.
Pakistan's cricketers in action during a one-day international against Zimbabwe in November. (Photo by AAMIR QURESHI/AFP via Getty Images)

The New Zealand government is fuming after six Pakistan cricketers tested positive for COVID-19 after arriving in the country.

In a WhatsApp voice note sent to his players on Thursday, Pakistan Cricket CEO Wasim Khan said he was given a “final warning” by both New Zealand Cricket and its government after six players tested positive on arriving in the country.

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Khan warned the national squad on tour in New Zealand to obey COVID-19 protocols or see the whole team being sent home.

“They have told me straight away that one more breach and they will send the whole team back,” Khan said in the two-minute message, recorded in the Urdu language, adding that “it will be embarrassing” if this happens.

Closed-circuit television footage showed some members of the Pakistan squad had contravened protocols on the first day of managed isolation.

“They also said there were three to four breaches of protocols,” Khan said.

“They have zero tolerance and they have given us a final warning. I know it's difficult times for you and it's not easy.

“You have operated in similar conditions (playing) in England ... it’s a matter of the country's respect and credibility.

“Please observe 14 days, then you will get freedom in New Zealand to go out in restaurants and roam around, but please adhere to full protocols.”

Investigation underway into quarantine breach

The Pakistan team’s exemption to practice while in managed isolation will be withheld until an investigation has been completed.

All players were tested four times before their departure from Lahore to New Zealand and were negative on each occasion.

New Zealand Cricket said while the positive cases were disappointing, their early discovery showed government protocols around touring teams are working.

“Please guys, I know it’s difficult, it’s very tough, but do stay disciplined and follow through the protocols,” Khan told his players.

“They will not compromise on health and safety in New Zealand, so please adhere to it.”

Jacinda Ardern, pictured here speaking to the media in Auckland.
The New Zealand government has issued Pakistan a final warning. (Photo by Mark Mitchell - Pool/Getty Images)

Pakistan are scheduled to play three Twenty20 internationals against New Zealand, starting on December 18, followed by two Test matches.

The six players have been moved from managed isolation into quarantine.

Two of the six cases were described as “historical” and four were new. The whole Pakistan touring group, including 53 players and officials, was tested after arriving on Tuesday.

New Zealand’s Ministry of Health said breaches of isolation rules occurred “despite clear, consistent and detailed communication of expected behaviours while in the facility.”

“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,” said Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield.

Fans around the world were left fuming over the bungle.

with AAP

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