Fakhar Zaman will miss the upcoming tour of New Zealand after he developed COVID-19 symptoms. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stated that Fakhar’s test came out negative on Saturday and the left-hander developed symptoms afterwards. Upon this development, Fakhar was isolated in his hotel room from the rest of the squad.
Keeping in mind the health and well being of the squad members, Fakhar will not be allowed to travel to New Zealand.
Pakistan’s Team Doctor Saleem Sohail said: “Fakhar’s covid test report was received on Saturday which came out negative but today he picked up a fever. As soon as his condition was reported, he was isolated from the rest of the squad in the team hotel. We are constantly monitoring his condition and remain hopeful of his quick recovery; however, he is not fit to travel with the squad and as such has been withdrawn from the tour.
Due to stringent quarantine measures in New Zealand, it is highly unlikely that Fakhar Zaman can join the squad at any stage of the tour.
Fakhar Zaman was set to feature in the three-match T20 series starting December 18. The management is not considering to name a replacement as Abdullah Shafique and Haider Ali can do the opening duties with captain Babar Azam.
The Pakistan and Pakistan Shaheen’s squad are set to depart for New Zealand from Lahore on Monday.
