SOPs finalised for PSL 5 playoffs

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has completed the arrangements and prepared a plan for the bio-secure bubble during the playoffs of Pakistan Super League (PSL) season five.

PSL 2020 was the first event to be held entirely in Pakistan since its inception in 2016. The fifth edition commenced in Karachi on February 20, but was suspended on March 17 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The decision was taken by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and PSL franchises, unanimously, after Karachi Kings batsman Alex Hales showed symptoms of the novel coronavirus.

Pakistan is currently experiencing the second wave of Covid-19. One cricketer recently tested positive for Covid-19 in the ongoing season of Quaid-e-Azam Trophy in Karachi. However, the PCB is determined to stage the playoffs of PSL 5 in Karachi, starting from November 14. The completion of PSL 5 is important in terms of sponsorship revenue, which won’t be received as long as the event is incomplete, and franchise fee for the next edition. 

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According to sources, PCB has informed the franchises that if any player tests positive for the virus, the league won’t be halted. An isolation room will be allocated in the hotel, where the player will stay if he shows mild symptoms. In case of more serious symptoms, the player will be admitted in the hospital. The movement of players will be restricted to the stadium and their hotel.

Sources further added that PCB had asked the four teams that have qualified for the playoffs to name five players each for the replacement pool. The teams will be allowed to pick any player from the 20-player replacement pool, in case of an injury during the playoffs. Every team already has 18 players in their squad.

Franchises have shown confidence in PCB’s plan and are hopeful that the event takes place without any hassle.