New Zealand government is learnt to have told Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) CEO Wasim Khan that another breach of New Zealand's COVID-19 protocols will result in the entire Pakistan squad being deported back home.
Alongside the news that six of the touring cricketers had tested positive for the dangerous virus, New Zealand authorities also revealed that the visitors had breached the quarantine regulations in place for the safety of everyone. Subsequently, Pakistan's training exemption during the isolation period was taken away and a "final warning" was given too.
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Through a Whatsapp voice message which ESPNcricinfo obtained, Wasim is understood to have conveyed the message from the government there to the players, reiterating to them the tour is a matter of Pakistan's "respect and credibility" and that being sent back would be "hugely embarrassing".
"Boys, I spoke to the New Zealand government and they told us there were three or four breaches of protocols," Khan said in the voice note.
"They have a zero-tolerance policy and they've given us a final warning. We understand that this is a difficult time for you, and you went through similar conditions in England. It's not easy. But this is a matter of the nation's respect and credibility."
"Observe these 14 days and then you'll have the freedom to go to restaurants and roam about freely. They have told me in clear terms that if we commit one more breach, they'll send us home."
Dr Ashley Bloomfield, New Zealand's director general of health, was critical of Pakistan team's careless attitude towards the protocols in place.
Bloomfield said, it's "a privilege to come to New Zealand to play sport, but in return teams must stick to the rules that are designed to keep Covid-19 out of our communities."
Khan had echoed those sentiments to the players.
"This is a matter of national pride. It would be very embarrassing if they end up sending the team back," he added in his message. "I know it's very tough and difficult, but stay disciplined and follow the protocols they have set."
"We have no margin for error with the New Zealand government. This is a final warning. They will not compromise on health and safety. Do what's right for your country."
New Zealand government has done a marvellous job in curbing down the COVID-19 transmission. The country is currently under Level 1 conditions, the term used for places with no restrictions on movement. That came about as there are no active cases outside of borders or isolation facilities.
Previously, New Zealand went through 100 days without a new positive case and was able to quickly end a second wave too, reflective of the level of seriousness with which the Kiwi health authorities have treated the pandemic. Hence, all the more reason for the tourists to show the same attitude. Either way, they are now well aware of the possible ramifications in case of another breach.
Pakistan are scheduled to play 3 T20Is and 2 Tests on their tour, starting December 18.
(Inputs from ESPNcricinfo)
