Zimbabwe wicketkeeper-batsman Regis Chakabva and batsman Timycen Maruma have been tested positive for the deadly COVID-19, Zimbabwe Cricket confirmed on Friday (October 23).
Chakabva and Maruma were part of Zimbabwe’s provisional 25-man squad for the limited-overs tour of Pakistan but both were left out of the 20-man touring party.
The ZC also confirmed both cricketers did not come into contact with any of the traveling squad which returned negative for the COVID-19 on arrival in Islamabad
The COVID-19 infected players came into the virus’ contact after being roommates for a week in a bio-secure bubble at the Zimbabwe cricket academy in Harare.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s two support staff members at the academy also tested positive for the COVID-19 and it has been closed for disinfection.
ZC said in a statement: “Chakabva and Maruma, as well as the other two infected backroom staffers, are currently observing a period of self-isolation in accordance with Covid-19 protocols. We wish the four a speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming them back at work soon.”
The statement further reads: “Apart from providing support to those infected and affected, we will continue to adhere to government and public health guidelines with regards to our facilities and staff, and will be taking further steps to curb the spread of the coronavirus.”
Noteworthy, Zimbabwe is scheduled to play three ODIs and as many T20Is in Pakistan. The three ODIs, part of ICC World Cup Super League, will be played on October 30, November 1, and 3 in Rawalpindi, the T20Is are scheduled for November 7, 8, and 10 in Lahore.
(With PTI Inputs)
