COVID-19: PCB decides not to hold national teams training camp

LAHORE: Amid COVID-19, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided not to hold a training camp of the national men’s team prior to their departure for England.

Acceding to the PCB statement, following the rapid growth of coronavirus cases in the country, the operational and logistical matters as well the observation that keeping players in a safe and secure environment would remain a challenge, PCB has decided not to hold a training camp.

The PCB is already in discussions with the ECB to bring forward their early July departure date for England so the Pakistan squad can benefit from the additional practice time there, said the spokesman for the PCB on Tuesday.

“More details around the pre-tour COVID-19 testing of the players and player support personnel, assembling them in Lahore and their training/match schedule will be shared in due course,” he added.

Meanwhile, the board has instructed the players not to practice at cricket grounds and that they must observe and adhere to strict social distancing protocols. These instructions have been issued as their personal well-being and that of their families remains paramount, added the spokesman.

According to the board’s chief executive, Wasim Khan England is scheduled to host Pakistan for three Tests from July 30, followed by three Twenty20 internationals.

PCB had a very detailed and comprehensive discussion with the ECB regarding the tour and PCB has now agreed in principle to send the Pakistani cricket team to England in July.

He said he will brief Test captain Azhar Ali and ODI and T20 captain Babar Azam on the tour next week, adding that all of the players will be briefed fully on England’s arrangements for the tour. According to Khan, the PCB will seek permission from the government before making the final decision.

Khan said 25 players will travel to England on four chartered flights in the first week of July and that the series will be played behind closed doors after the players have completed their quarantine periods.’