New Zealand government gives all-clear for Pakistan, West Indies to tour
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has issued a statement confirming that they have got permission to start international cricket on their own. International cricket has been closed for several months due to Coronavirus epidemic.
The New Zealand government has allowed the introduction of international cricket in the country. International cricket has been closed for several months due to Coronavirus epidemic.
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has issued a statement confirming that they have got permission to start international cricket on their own.
“New Zealand Cricket has received government approval to proceed with plans to host international touring sides this summer … beginning with the West Indies and Pakistan’s men’s teams in November, December and January,” NZC said in a statement.
“A press conference to announce the details of the upcoming summer’s international … schedule will be held early next week.”
So far, men’s international cricket has been played only in England, while league cricket has started in many countries. However, the conduct of women’s cricket has also started gradually.
West Indies have to enter the three-match T20 series against New Zealand and then the two-match Test series. At the same time, Pakistan has to play a three-match T20 series and a two-match Test series against the Kiwi team. Apart from this, the New Zealand women’s cricket team is also considering playing a tri-series with Australia and Bangladesh.
New Zealand Minister of Sport Grant Robertson said Netball New Zealand had also been given permission to resume hosting international matches but that all incoming teams would be subject to strict protocols.
“Getting teams into managed isolation and allowing them to train and be competitive has not been an easy task,” he said.
“While sports teams will be operating within a bubble, safety will be ensured through the provision of normal infection prevention control mechanisms like physical separation, normal hygiene practices and PPE.
“Training facilities will also be secure, safe and isolated.”
Meanwhile, the New Zealand team’s tour of Australia which was to be held in January next year has been postponed. The New Zealand Cricket Board has not given more information about when this series will take place. There were three ODIs and one T20 match under this series.
