PSL 2022: Three franchises report positive COVID-19 cases

The seventh edition of the Pakistan Super League is all set to start on January 27. With barely a week to go before its commencement, the COVID-19 pandemic might act as a hindrance.

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As a matter of fact, the players and officials have started gathering in Karachi to join the bio-bubble as well. However, according to a report by Cricket Pakistan, three franchises have reported positive cases. All the three teams, on the request of anonymity, have confirmed that there are positive cases in their respective camps.

This not only includes the players, but also the officials from the franchises. As many as five cases have been reported ahead of Pakistan's T20 league. However, most of the players and officials are expected to join the bio-bubble in Karachi by Thursday.

PCB officials test positive for COVID-19 as well

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This bio-bubble has been set up by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) itself. They did it to conduct tests as most of the people have been involved in some or the other cricketing activities. Thus, this might result in more positive cases.

To make matters worse, a few of PCB's officials have also fallen prey to the deadly virus. In the meanwhile, some families have also been reportedly tested positive. Thus, the board has already addressed the current scenario.

The PCB stated that the tournament will proceed even if as many as seven players are tested positive for COVID-19. Thus, Pakistan's board had earlier announced that the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has approved 25 per cent crowd attendance for the league. PCB Chief Operating Officer and PSL Tournament Director Salman Naseer was hopeful to set the stage with 25 per cent crowds to attend the Karachi matches.

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"As a responsible organisation, we completely understand our obligations in relation to health and safety of the fans and will leave no stone unturned in strictly implementing the NCOC guidelines," said Salman Naseer, as quoted by Business Standard.

"However, we will also require complete and unconditional support from the spectators so that they and others can continue to enjoy the matches in a safe and secure environment. This is something they can do by simply following the guidelines," he added.