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After Pakistan levelled the two match Test series against West Indies with a brilliant win in Jamaica, they have now been handed a major blow before leaving for home. Pakistan's head coach Misbah-ul-Haq has notably tested positive for COVID-19 in the pre-departure RT-PCR test. As a result, the 47-year-old will now have to undergo quarantine in Jamaica and will be allowed to travel only after he tests negative for the virus.
Meanwhile, the rest of the members have reportedly tested negative and will be traveling back to Lahore on Wednesday evening as planned. PCB confirmed the news through a tweet on Wednesday which stated, "In pre-departure PCR testing, Misbah-ul-Haq has tested positive, he remains asymptomatic. Rest of the squad to fly out from Jamaica later today as scheduled. We wish Misbah a speedy recovery."
Misbah was the only member to test positive for virus
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that Misbah-ul-Haq was the only member among all players and staff to test positive for COVID-19. This is why rest of the squad was given a green signal to travel back to Lahore leaving the head coach behind. However, the governing body assured that they are in constant talks with Cricket West Indies to ensure the well-being of Misbah in Jamaica.
In an official statement, they said, "The PCB is constantly in touch with Cricket West Indies who have confirmed that Misbah will be shifted to another hotel for the 10-day quarantine with a medical specialist assigned to look after his health and wellbeing."
Pakistan will host New Zealand for white-ball series next month
After their tour of West Indies, Pakistan's next assignment is against New Zealand with Men in Green set to welcome the Kiwis for 3-match ODI series scheduled to begin from September 17 onwards. It will be followed by a 5-match T20I series which is going to be key in their bid to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
With such an important series lined up, Pakistan cricket side would be hoping for a speedy recovery for their head coach so that he can return back home and resume his duties as early as possible.