Pakistan clear fifth COVID Test, to leave managed isolation in New Zealand

Pakistan who are on a tour of New Zealand have been cleared to leave their managed isolation, subject to clearance from health ministry of New Zealand, after returning negative in a fifth round of COVID-19 tests.

Earlier, the 53-member Pakistan contingent was denied the right to train while in managed isolation in New Zealand as eight members of the had tested positive for Covid-19.

“This is to advise the Pakistan squad’s fifth and final day 12, Covid-19 tests have all been returned as negative,” NZC said in a statement.

“As a consequence, and pending final Ministry of Health approval, the squad will leave managed isolation tomorrow and fly to Queenstown, where they will train ahead of the T20 and Test series against the BLACKCAPS.”

Pakistan will kick off their tour with three T20Is starting December 18, followed by a two-match Test series from December 26.

Six members of the team had tested positive on arrival, while two more returned positive tests later. All eight members are now in quarantine.

“The member of the Pakistan squad who tested positive on Day 6 will remain in managed isolation until departing, negative tests permitting,” NZC said.

“Additionally, the member of the squad who was taken into quarantine in Auckland after arriving from Dubai feeling unwell but subsequently testing negative, has also been cleared to leave the facility.”

On Sunday, Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq had complained that not being able to train while being in managed isolation was hampering his side’s preparation ahead of the series.