Pakistan’s limited-overs captain Babar Azam, along with opener Imamul Haq and pacer Naseem Shah, have been warned by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) after violating novel coronavirus (Covid-19) Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The trio were spotted training at the Abdul Qadir Cricket Academy but did not observe proper health and safety measures, which led to severe criticism on social media.

“We had clearly asked the players, earlier as well, to not practice at cricket grounds during this period and that they must observe and adhere to strict social distancing protocols,” PCB Media Director Sami Burney said.   

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It must be noted that, taking into account the Covid-19 outlook in Pakistan in the coming weeks, the operational and logistical matters as well the observation that keeping players in a safe and secure environment remain a challenge which is why the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had decided not to hold a training camp of the national men’s team prior to their departure for England.

Pakistan are scheduled to take on England in three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), which will be played in August-September.