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All remaining PSL 5 games to be played behind closed doors [Update Post #75]

Should PSL matches in Karachi be shifted elsewhere to combat coronavirus threat?


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Abdullah719

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Sindh’s Minister of Health and Population Welfare Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho on Tuesday decided on and suggested multiple measures to curb the spread of coronavirus in the province.

The decisions and suggestions were finalised in an internal departmental meeting.

It was suggested to Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to put a ban on large public gatherings and the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) and to keep schools in the province shut down for a longer duration.
An advisory will be issued today by the provincial government to avoid large public gatherings.

It was also decided to set up another health desk for screening purposes at Karachi airport, the desk will be manned by provincial health workers.

The meeting also decided to set up desks at all public and private hospitals in the province to provide information on the novel coronavirus. The government has also provided standard operating procedures (SOPs) to hospitals outlining steps to be taken to treat positive coronavirus cases.

In regards to quarantine procedures, the provincial health department will issue an advisory asking people to self-quarantine for 14 days if they have recently arrived in Pakistan from coronavirus-hit countries.

Pechuho was further informed during the meeting that Gadap hospital has been prepared as an isolation facility for all confirmed coronavirus cases.

Nine people who recently returned from abroad were tested positive for novel coronavirus in Karachi on Monday, pushing the tally to 13 in Sindh and 16 in the country.

The Sindh Health Department said that of nine new cases, five people have arrived from Syria via Doha whereas other patients returned from London via Dubai last week.

So far 16 Pakistanis have been tested positive for COVID-19, the mysterious viral pneumonia-like disease caused by the novel coronavirus. Thirteen of them belong to Sindh while one has already fully recovered and discharged from the hospital in Karachi.

The new cases have emerged as all educational institutions in Sindh have been closed till March 13 over fears of the contagious disease’s outbreak in the province.

The mysterious COVID-19 virus, which originated in a vet market of the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, has since then spread to more than 100 countries of the world, killing over 3,500 and infecting around 110,000, mostly in China thus far.

But new outbreaks in Europe, the Middle East and in Asia have fanned fears of the contagion taking hold in poor nations that lack the healthcare infrastructure to cope.

There are growing fears in Pakistan — sandwiched between China and Iran, both hotspots for the disease — over how the country would deal with the outbreak.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/217310...sl-public-gatherings-curb-coronavirus-spread/
 
And people were abusing BD for talking about corona.

It's real.

Govt. itself closed down all the schools.

Yet, people were furious and their ego got hurt when some BD official mentioned they'll be considering corona before the next tour happens.
 
Should take the sensible decision and cancel these matches. The public health risk far outweighs any benefits from hosting a few meaningless cricket matches.
 
Cancel the tournament


We can't take the risk or play without crowd
 
Karachi: The City of Lights is all set to host the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 5 once again as per the schedule, sources confirmed ARY Sports on Tuesday.

“Everything is alright here so far and National Stadium Karachi (NSK) will host PSL 5 once again as per the schedule. Commissioner Karachi is leading a meeting which includes Sindh Health Ministry currently at NSK and the final announcement will be made soon,” the source from NSK told ARY Sports.

The meeting will discuss precautions to prevent coronavirus and authorities will make sure complete medical check-ups on each entry gate across the stadium. The medical team will be there to check each and every person before allowing them to enter the stands.

On the other hand, Governor Sindh Imran Ismail has also asked people to come to the stadium without any fear. “Come to the stadium without any fear. Authorities will make sure to implement all the precautions to prevent any mishappening,” he said.

It must be noted here that NSK is scheduled to host five matches including a qualifier from March 12 to 17.

https://arysports.tv/psl-5-second-phase-karachi-going-anywhere/
 
The Karachi matches should and most probably will get shifted now unless the tournament is cancelled altogether.
 
The decision has been finalized.
Matches will go ahead as planned.
But question is that is this risk worth it for the people to go.
 
Safety comes first, every thing else is secondary, particularly entertainment like PSL.

But every action should be balanced in view of the risk.

Based upon my own knowledge and research and even with extremely cautious approach, I think calling off or even shifting PSL matches are too pre-mature at this point.

Situation should be kept on monitoring.

In extreme situation PSL can be continued with very limited or no spectators in the stadium, as being done in Italy, the country with most death from Corona virus out side china and some other countries.

Same should be considered for IPL, no need to cancel.

There is no evidence at this point that cororona virus is deadlier than Flu.
 
Coronavirus PSL 2020

PCB should shift all Karachi games to Multan as per the direction of Sindh Health Minister.

I understand that this is like a baptism with fire for PCB as it is the first complete PSL in Pakistan but if they can achieve it then it will send a huge message to the world that Pakistan is not only safe for Cricket but it is also logistically and administratly organised.

  1. Give Multan Staff ultimatum to get the ground ready for 5 Games
  2. Issue Refunds for Karachi
  3. Sell Tickets for Multan
  4. Play the games
 
Some really non-sense comments from people who either are not happy with PSL being played or they don;t have some basic knowledge about coronovirus infection.

At this point PCB has made the right decision.
 
The Sindh Health Department on Tuesday took into consideration proposals to urge the government to implement a ban on public events in Karachi after nine new cases of the novel coronavirus were reported from the city a day earlier.

A meeting of the Health Department, led by Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho, decided to send a recommendation to Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to extend the ongoing closure of schools—set to end on March 15—in a bid to halt the spread of COVID-19. It also recommended establishing a health desk at the city’s airport, reported local media.

The health desk, said the meeting’s participants, would help screen anyone entering Karachi for the coronavirus. Similar desks, said a spokesperson for the Health Department, would be established at hospitals to provide up-to-date information on the pandemic to concerned citizens.

The spokesperson also said that the Health Department would forward a recommendation to the government to cancel large gatherings such as the ongoing Pakistan Super League tournament to prevent the coronavirus from spreading in the metropolis.

A spokesperson of the Pakistan Cricket Board, meanwhile, said the organization was in contact with the Sindh government in light of the rise in the number of confirmed coronavirus cases. “PCB officials are in constant touch with the Sindh government and attending all the meetings regarding PSL matches in the city,” the spokesperson said. “Whatever the government recommends, the PCB will implement,” they added.

There are five PSL matches still to be held in Karachi; the first match is schedule for March 12, with subsequent matches on March 13, March 14, March 15, and qualifier on March 17.

https://www.newsweekpakistan.com/sindh-considers-proposals-to-stem-spread-of-coronavirus/
 
IPL is not being cancelled. Why should the PSL?
 
Women's World Hockey Championships Canceled Due to COVID-19: AP Source

The women’s world hockey championships in Canada were canceled Saturday because of the new coronavirus.

International Ice Hockey Federation President René Fasel told The Associated Press the decision was made by conference call. The two-week tournament was set to open March 31, with venues in Halifax and Truro, Nova Scotia.

Fasel said by phone that concerns were raised regarding the health of players and fans attending the tournament in light of the global spread of the virus. Hockey Canada, the sport’s domestic ruling bod,y, was in the process of informing its officials and partners of the cancellation.

Fasel noted the difficulties some of the eight nations will encounter in making travel plans, such as Japan, where almost all sports events and large gatherings have been canceled.

“It’s scary,” Fasel said.

The women’s worlds were canceled once before — the 2003 tournament in Beijing because of the SARS outbreak in China.

Fasel said the status of other upcoming international hockey tournaments will be determined in the coming month, starting with the under-18 men’s championships in Michigan from April 16-26. Fasel said a decision on that tournament likely will be made within 10 days.

The IIHF will await until mid-April to determine whether to proceed with the men’s world championships set to open May 8 in Switzerland.


https://time.com/5798945/world-hockey-championships-canceled-coronavirus/
 
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are people not going to offices, schools, unis and public gathering is non existent? if not then why people have issues with PSL?
 
Safety comes first, every thing else is secondary, particularly entertainment like PSL.

But every action should be balanced in view of the risk.

Based upon my own knowledge and research and even with extremely cautious approach, I think calling off or even shifting PSL matches are too pre-mature at this point.

Situation should be kept on monitoring.

In extreme situation PSL can be continued with very limited or no spectators in the stadium, as being done in Italy, the country with most death from Corona virus out side china and some other countries.

Same should be considered for IPL, no need to cancel.

There is no evidence at this point that cororona virus is deadlier than Flu.

This is very much on-point at this time. It would be foolish to cancel the tournament as the situation currently stands. Karachi is not Italy and several games/tournaments elsewhere are carrying on. The majority of the people recover from the virus and in a city of Karachi's size PSL is one gathering of a few thousand people among more than 15 million overall, most of whom already live in close quarters.

If the situation was worse than it is right now, then a move to another city would have made sense. It can still be done if there's a large enough threat according to the experts. But those suggesting cancelling the entire tournament in the present circumstances are panicking a bit too much.
 
Sindh CM rejects suggestion to shift PSL matches from Karachi amid virus fear

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah has announced that the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season five matches will be hosted in Karachi as scheduled from March 12 amid fears of the spread of novel coronavirus in the city.

With the confirmation of two more cases of COVID-19, the mysterious viral pneumonia-like disease caused by the novel coronavirus, in Sindh, total number of patients has risen to 15 in the province out of 18 reported cases in the country.

Earlier in the day, it was reportedly suggested to Chief Minister Shah that a ban should be place on large public gatherings like the ongoing T20 tournament and to keep schools in the province shut down for a longer duration.

The chief minister, after chairing a high-level meeting at CM House on Tuesday, directed the health department to issue a health advisory to the spectators during the PSL matches and ensure installation of hand sanitizer stalls at National Stadium.

Furthermore, he directed Information Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah and Karachi Commissioner Iftikhar Shallwani to finalise details of health guidelines for the PSL matches with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

He reiterated that all patients who have tested positive of coronavirus had arrived from other countries and there had been no human-contact cases observed in the city so far.

CM Shah urged the public to “have confidence in the government”.

Earlier in the day, Nasir Hussain Shah had told the media that adequate measures had been taken in order to conduct the matches in a safe environment.

“The PSL matches will continue as scheduled. Our preparations are complete. We are ready as far as health preparations are concerned. Fumigation will take place in and around the stadium. We would advise caution for foreigners. The virus is not very dangerous. It is the fans decision if they want to come to the ground. We will also conduct thermal screening,” Shah said.

PCB’s Director International Cricket Operations Zakir Khan had also said that a final decision will be made based on the recommendations of the officials in the Sindh government.

https://tribune.com.pk/story/217339...ft-psl-matches-karachi-amid-coronavirus-fear/
 
The Pakistan Cricket Board today confirmed following positive and constructive discussions with the Government of Sindh, the five HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 matches will be played at the National Stadium as originally planned.

“As is always the case, the PCB is guided by the Sindh government on such matters. In this background, we are satisfied with the feedback the Sindh government has provided and the support it has assured. At the same time, the PCB has promised the Sindh government that it will work very closely with its commercial partner and support wherever it can to assist in the health and safety of the spectators.

“The PCB now looks forward to a strong turnaround at the Karachi matches as the HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 enters a critical phase with five of the six sides fighting for places in the play-offs.”

Meanwhile, the Office of the Commissioner Karachi has issued the following advisory for spectators who will be attending matches at the National Stadium:

• Wash your hands with soap / alcoholic sanitizers after coughing or sneezing, before & after eating food and after toilet use;

• Use tissue papers / handkerchief while sneezing;

• Properly dispose off used tissue papers / handkerchief etc. in dust bins;

• In case of any symptoms of flu and cough, avoid coming into the stadium;

• Avoid hand shaking and hugging with each other;

• Avoid close contact when anyone is experiencing cough and fever

• Avoid touching unnecessarily chairs / railings and steel bars in the stadium;

• Avoid spitting, throwing water, food, empty bottles and wrappers in open in the stadium.

Upcoming matches in Karachi:

12 March – Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars (7pm-10.15pm)
13 March – Peshawar Zalmi v Multan Sultans (8pm-11.15pm)
14 March – Karachi Kings v Islamabad United (7pm-10.15pm)
15 March –Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings (7pm-10.15pm)
17 March – Qualifier (1 vs 2) (7pm-10.15pm)
 
Fake bravado asking crowd to turn up. And they crowd will turn up if not banned specifically.

Play the matches behind the close doors, with empty stands.

Coronoa Virus is like a proof of Six Degrees of Separation. All it needs is just one contact and thereafter it becomes exponential.
 
The Pakistan Cricket Board today confirmed following positive and constructive discussions with the Government of Sindh, the five HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 matches will be played at the National Stadium as originally planned.

“As is always the case, the PCB is guided by the Sindh government on such matters. In this background, we are satisfied with the feedback the Sindh government has provided and the support it has assured. At the same time, the PCB has promised the Sindh government that it will work very closely with its commercial partner and support wherever it can to assist in the health and safety of the spectators.

“The PCB now looks forward to a strong turnaround at the Karachi matches as the HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 enters a critical phase with five of the six sides fighting for places in the play-offs.”

Meanwhile, the Office of the Commissioner Karachi has issued the following advisory for spectators who will be attending matches at the National Stadium:

• Wash your hands with soap / alcoholic sanitizers after coughing or sneezing, before & after eating food and after toilet use;

• Use tissue papers / handkerchief while sneezing;

• Properly dispose off used tissue papers / handkerchief etc. in dust bins;

• In case of any symptoms of flu and cough, avoid coming into the stadium;

• Avoid hand shaking and hugging with each other;

• Avoid close contact when anyone is experiencing cough and fever

• Avoid touching unnecessarily chairs / railings and steel bars in the stadium;

• Avoid spitting, throwing water, food, empty bottles and wrappers in open in the stadium.

Upcoming matches in Karachi:

12 March – Karachi Kings v Lahore Qalandars (7pm-10.15pm)
13 March – Peshawar Zalmi v Multan Sultans (8pm-11.15pm)
14 March – Karachi Kings v Islamabad United (7pm-10.15pm)
15 March –Quetta Gladiators v Karachi Kings (7pm-10.15pm)
17 March – Qualifier (1 vs 2) (7pm-10.15pm)

Lol, these are basic hygienic principles and steps. You don't need Coronavirus to adopt all of this, if it takes Coronavirus for our country to do these basic things, then that is really sad
 
Lol, these are basic hygienic principles and steps. You don't need Coronavirus to adopt all of this, if it takes Coronavirus for our country to do these basic things, then that is really sad

So true, Savak. We are perfect in all of the above. Problem solved.
 
Lol, these are basic hygienic principles and steps. You don't need Coronavirus to adopt all of this, if it takes Coronavirus for our country to do these basic things, then that is really sad

I'm British and we're being told the exact same thing and many Brits do not adopt these practices in day to day life. Not quite sure what you wana say here?

Anyway, back to the thread, I heard there were only 5 cases so far in Pakistan, why should that end the tournament or stop all matches in Karachi?
 
Not enough cases in a population as large as Karachi's to warrant that much panic. Unless the numbers are being under reported, which wouldn't surprise me
 
We have 70-80 cases in Washington state US, where population is not even half of Karachi and life is running normally
 
Some really non-sense comments from people who either are not happy with PSL being played or they don;t have some basic knowledge about coronovirus infection.

At this point PCB has made the right decision.

This is an absolutely idiotic and moronic viewpoint, and betrays a fundamental misinterpretation of the exponential risk to public health. The wait and see approach has been tried by most countries with disastrous consequences, i.e. Italy is not Wuhan, the US is not China or Iran. The countries that have been successfully able to control the spread have all acted proactively and moved to curtail social interactions. Pakistan doesn't have the infrastructure to cope with a large number of cases. Only a complete fool would not advocate for a precautionary strategy.
 
This is an absolutely idiotic and moronic viewpoint, and betrays a fundamental misinterpretation of the exponential risk to public health. The wait and see approach has been tried by most countries with disastrous consequences, i.e. Italy is not Wuhan, the US is not China or Iran. The countries that have been successfully able to control the spread have all acted proactively and moved to curtail social interactions. Pakistan doesn't have the infrastructure to cope with a large number of cases. Only a complete fool would not advocate for a precautionary strategy.

Its an exercise in futility. Almost everybody here is treating it with appalling levity. You will hear every third person making statements like "is say ziada to dengue say mar gaye thay", "garmi ayegi chala jayega". The politicians are calling it an achievement that all cases reported so far are people who have traveled abroad. Even highly qualified medical practitioners are criminally complacent about it.

Granted that it has a low mortality rate, it could subside, the media is overdoing the fear, and the numbers are small yet but the fact remains that you cannot rely on such ifs and buts and not prepare for the worst. The containment window for such highly transmissible diseases is short. It also depends to a large extent on the resources available. There is a reason why China was able to stop it from spreading and Italy failed when perhaps the scale of the outbreak was larger in China. No country can claim to have the resources and the ability to implement swift and draconian measures like China did and even then almost 100,000 people got infected. Now consider a country like Pakistan with its non-existent healthcare system, rampant poverty, dense urban centers and lack of even basic hygiene and one can only imagine the havoc that this can create.
 
I was bit emotional in my eariler post

Can we really stop the spread of virus by cancelling the matches?

Trains, Airports, hospitals, wedding, mosques, shrines, factories, busy bazaar/malls, workplace, banks, concerts etc. Shutdown the whole country but that isn't feasible at all with such economic turmoil :)
 
News from Bangladesh


The Mujib 100 events organised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) to commemorate the Birth Centenary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman have been postponed as a precautionary measure in light of the Coronavirus Disease situation worldwide.
 
If the IPL is not shutting down, why should the PSL?
 
Very tough decision, they should have shifted the matches to somewhere else.
 
Its an exercise in futility. Almost everybody here is treating it with appalling levity. You will hear every third person making statements like "is say ziada to dengue say mar gaye thay", "garmi ayegi chala jayega". The politicians are calling it an achievement that all cases reported so far are people who have traveled abroad. Even highly qualified medical practitioners are criminally complacent about it.

Granted that it has a low mortality rate, it could subside, the media is overdoing the fear, and the numbers are small yet but the fact remains that you cannot rely on such ifs and buts and not prepare for the worst. The containment window for such highly transmissible diseases is short. It also depends to a large extent on the resources available. There is a reason why China was able to stop it from spreading and Italy failed when perhaps the scale of the outbreak was larger in China. No country can claim to have the resources and the ability to implement swift and draconian measures like China did and even then almost 100,000 people got infected. Now consider a country like Pakistan with its non-existent healthcare system, rampant poverty, dense urban centers and lack of even basic hygiene and one can only imagine the havoc that this can create.

Absolutely, it's the flippancy that's appalling, but then again it's human nature to look the other way and keep putting off hard decisions.

I am in Shanghai right now for work and the level of discipline involved is staggering, everyone is checked for fever and flu symptoms at least twice a day and anyone showing the slightest sign of being sick is asked to self-quarantine.

Now we have news that someone at the women's T20 final at the MCG has tested positive for the virus, this has potential to wreak absolute havoc with lives in Pakistan and the dithering idiots at the PCB are too incompetent to take this decision.
 
Absolutely, it's the flippancy that's appalling, but then again it's human nature to look the other way and keep putting off hard decisions.

I am in Shanghai right now for work and the level of discipline involved is staggering, everyone is checked for fever and flu symptoms at least twice a day and anyone showing the slightest sign of being sick is asked to self-quarantine.

Now we have news that someone at the women's T20 final at the MCG has tested positive for the virus, this has potential to wreak absolute havoc with lives in Pakistan and the dithering idiots at the PCB are too incompetent to take this decision.

No country can do what China did. The scale on which they do things is incredible.

I wouldn't blame PCB for this as much as the provincial and federal governments as PSL has become more of a political issue than an administrative one. Instead of planning for worst case scenarios its pretty much business as usual for them and perhaps they don't even care. The extent of the complacency and ineptitude can be gauged from the statements coming from the Sindh government regarding PSL matches. The CM asked anyone who has "nazla zukam" to stay at home and the provincial information minister was even quoted as saying that the virus isn't very dangerous. Really don't know whether to laugh or cry at all this. Today the media was reporting that they would be reopening schools in Sindh and the advisory given by the Sindh government states that schools should try to maintain a distance of 3 feet between students. What hope can one have after such statements?
 
Its an exercise in futility. Almost everybody here is treating it with appalling levity. You will hear every third person making statements like "is say ziada to dengue say mar gaye thay", "garmi ayegi chala jayega". The politicians are calling it an achievement that all cases reported so far are people who have traveled abroad. Even highly qualified medical practitioners are criminally complacent about it.

Granted that it has a low mortality rate, it could subside, the media is overdoing the fear, and the numbers are small yet but the fact remains that you cannot rely on such ifs and buts and not prepare for the worst. The containment window for such highly transmissible diseases is short. It also depends to a large extent on the resources available. There is a reason why China was able to stop it from spreading and Italy failed when perhaps the scale of the outbreak was larger in China. No country can claim to have the resources and the ability to implement swift and draconian measures like China did and even then almost 100,000 people got infected. Now consider a country like Pakistan with its non-existent healthcare system, rampant poverty, dense urban centers and lack of even basic hygiene and one can only imagine the havoc that this can create.

You underestimate the ability of Pakistan to shut down. There will be a complete curfew if things go south. Troops, rangers, army will initiate martial law in all but name. Pakistan has a history of major hartaals and shut downs. It can be done and the state has experience in doing it. The majority of the population is still in villages and the outbreak can be contained.

The mortality rate effects the old and those with existing complications. The majority of the pakistani population is below the common age where mortality is a problem. that being said the country would need to go to a war footing to deal with a major outbreak. Ports airports shut. Schools shut. Industry grinds to a hault. It could cause a major economic problem.

They govt is right in the current situation to not cause a panic as this will cause a major shock to the economy and we are not prepared just yet.

Cases are within manageable levels. But once they pass the threshold of triple digits I would expect major initiatives to shut down.

Be prepared to see troops and amc staff on the streets in all major cities soon. I expect curfews, full lock downs and possible rationing. It will be martial law in all but name.

I expect the UK to go into a partial shutdown from the end of this week onwards for at least two to three weeks as the govt has prepared their funds to deal with the inevitable short term shut down.
 
PCB decides to hold HBL PSL matches at closed National Stadium

Following advice from the Sindh Government late Thursday afternoon, the Pakistan Cricket Board, has made a decision to stage the upcoming Karachi HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 matches in front of empty National Stadium.

The decision will be enforced from Friday, 13 March, while for the Thursday, 12 March, fixture, the PCB and the Sindh Government have strongly advised the spectators to continue to take all necessary precautionary measures (reproduced below).

The precautionary decision has been made to better protect the health and safety of the spectators, players, officials and media.

The decision will not impact accredited commercial partners, media and other service providers, who will be allowed to enter the National Stadium. In addition, immediate families of the competing players and player support personnel as well as franchise owners will be allowed to attend matches.

In the meantime, the PCB has advised all players to avoid shaking hands and have also urged the fans not to approach the players for autographs, photographs and selfies.

In addition to this, the PCB has decided the sides will not be required to shake hands with each other or opposition in the lead up to and during the matches and use a fist bump / verbal greeting instead.

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “Health and safety is paramount and takes precedence over cricket. The PCB takes the health and safety of its players, spectators, officials, media, service providers and security personnel very seriously.

“Following the advisory from the Government of Sindh this evening, the PCB has taken this precautionary and preemptive measure which will result in matches taking place in front of empty stadium.

“We empathise with the Karachi fans who have been outstanding with their support in the earlier matches and during the hosting of eight HBLPSL matches last year. Once we received the advisory from the Government of Sindh, it was important for us to act quickly to ensure that the wellbeing of all concerned is better protected.

“The PCB has been regularly engaging with the teams and the players and have been updating them on matters. We have a duty of care to players and other stakeholders during this time; we would like to thank them for their continued trust and support.

“The initial 10 March decision to proceed with the Karachi leg of matches was taken following consultation with the Sindh Government and we have taken on board their latest advisory. We stated at the outset that we will work closely and take the lead from the local Governments.

“With regards to the remaining fixtures in Lahore, we are already in contact with the Punjab Government and will take on board its advisory in relation to the Lahore matches.
 
Too little.

Too late.

It's going to give a bad name to PCB/PAK if a player tests positive.

PSL was not this important.
 
You underestimate the ability of Pakistan to shut down. There will be a complete curfew if things go south. Troops, rangers, army will initiate martial law in all but name. Pakistan has a history of major hartaals and shut downs. It can be done and the state has experience in doing it. The majority of the population is still in villages and the outbreak can be contained.

The mortality rate effects the old and those with existing complications. The majority of the pakistani population is below the common age where mortality is a problem. that being said the country would need to go to a war footing to deal with a major outbreak. Ports airports shut. Schools shut. Industry grinds to a hault. It could cause a major economic problem.

They govt is right in the current situation to not cause a panic as this will cause a major shock to the economy and we are not prepared just yet.

Cases are within manageable levels. But once they pass the threshold of triple digits I would expect major initiatives to shut down.

Be prepared to see troops and amc staff on the streets in all major cities soon. I expect curfews, full lock downs and possible rationing. It will be martial law in all but name.

I expect the UK to go into a partial shutdown from the end of this week onwards for at least two to three weeks as the govt has prepared their funds to deal with the inevitable short term shut down.

I don't underestimate the ability I am just criticizing the willingness and complacency. And yes I know the army will take over as soon as "things go south". My problem is why are we waiting for things to go south? Why let it get to the stage where you have to take such drastic measures? At least try to control it now when you have a chance instead of waiting till when the only effective measures will be the ones you mentioned. I sincerely hope that you are right and things don't go awry but really have my doubts in the current situation.
 
I don't underestimate the ability I am just criticizing the willingness and complacency. And yes I know the army will take over as soon as "things go south". My problem is why are we waiting for things to go south? Why let it get to the stage where you have to take such drastic measures? At least try to control it now when you have a chance instead of waiting till when the only effective measures will be the ones you mentioned. I sincerely hope that you are right and things don't go awry but really have my doubts in the current situation.

Because "PEEE AYSS ELL".

PSL.

They can't cancel the matches. They think their ego will get hurt.

They don't realize even one player getting infected will be a major embarrassment. Teams won't trust us.
 
Whats the point of playing in an empty stadium? Might as well just cancel the tournament then
 
Whats the point of playing in an empty stadium? Might as well just cancel the tournament then

Umm, because mass gatherings are a no-no and all over the world they're being avoided.

Also, football matches in UK and EU, the highest level, are now being played in empty stadiums. What's their point then?

Empty stadium >>> full stadium.
 
Remaining PSL games in Karachi to be played behind closed doors

A good shout in my opinion.

No need to cancel the event but sensible to play it behind closed doors.

Wasim Khan just made the announcement during the ongoing Lahore vs Karachi game. Today will be the last game in Karachi in front of a crowd for this year's PSL.
 
Sensible move. This seems to be the way the rest of the world is going for sporting events so it'd look irresponsible for the PCB not to take the same precautions.
 
Spectators should be asked to wear quarantine suits
 
Why would the broadcasters agree to pay large sums of money for matches played in empty stadiums?

Broadcasters pay for the TV and online streaming audience and sponsorship and add revues that brings in.
 
This is the right decision. PCB overcoming egos and moving towards professionalism. Still took longer to decide it but right decision in the end.
 
Wasim Khan speaking at the NSK

"For us its the right decision as human life comes before cricket, and its important that we take care and take responsibility for the people of Karachi and that's why we have made this decision; Its with a heavy heart we have made this decision but its the right one"

"There is no decision on shifting [the Bangladesh Test and and the Pakistan Cup] - but its a valid question and we will think about it over the next 24 hours; We only got the information [on health advice etc] from the Sindh Government around 6:30pm today so we will take our time tomorrow"

"There are 2 or 3 things we need to make a decision on but as soon as we make those decisions, you will be the first one to know"

In reply to question about why this same decision was not taken before today where close to 20-22k people are here

"Look this advisory is from the Sindh Government, they assess the whole situation and in their view this situation requires attention; The situation has got worse in Karachi so the decision had to be made; On the back of their advisory we had to make that decision"

In reply to question about whether the final could also be played in the same way

"The situation is changing every day, we will assess the situation every 24 hours and take the appropriate decision after that"
 
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Covid-19 ICC Board Meeting Update

In light of the continued global spread of COVID-19, concerns expressed by Members and mindful of the importance of taking mitigating measures against the virus, the ICC Board, has decided to hold its meetings scheduled for Dubai at the end March via conference call only.
ICC Board Meeting

The Board and a number of committees will convene remotely to consider matters for urgent decision only, with the full meetings rescheduled for early May. This will be kept under constant review in line with advice from relevant authorities as the health and well-being of staff and those attending the meetings remains our priority.
 
Good decision by PCB. The numbe of cases in pakistan is low.So its better to hold the matches behind closed doors.
 
Should cancel playoffs. Finish out league stage. Declare league topper as PSL winner this season.
 
Good decision.

But there are probably cases in Punjab too. The virus hasn't just come to Karachi. As someone in Italy, the government was not proactive until it was too late. Now that measures have been taken, the virus peak should be reached in 1-2 weeks and then go down. Good to see us take actions well before it reaches critical point for our health infrastructure.

No one should wonder why IPL is going on. It's India's business, if they put money ahead of safety. But it's a good decision by our country to give priority to health.
 
Thank you God for providing some sanity to PSL organizers. There is no way of knowing if Lahore or anywhere else the virus has already spread. Since the game will be played behind closed doors, atleast weather won't cause any further issues most likely.
 
Dont think the final can be played in front of a live audience.
 
Dont think the final can be played in front of a live audience.

True, it would be difficult. However, considering what is happening to sporting events around the globe I will take a completed tournament even without the live audience in last few games.
 
PSL Team sources tell us that it is premature to say anything now regarding return of foreign players - decision making is a little fluid at the moment and different options being looked at.
 
Update: HBL PSL 2020 to continue as planned

Karachi, 13 March 2020:

The Pakistan Cricket Board, as part of the normal process, held a conference call with the team owners on Friday morning. The following are the outcomes:

• The HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 will proceed as planned, including tonight’s Multan Sultans versus Peshawar Zalmi match, which will commence at the National Stadium at 8pm

• The match will be played behind closed doors and only event accredited personnel will be allowed to enter the venue

• All players and players support personnel have been given the option to withdraw from the HBL PSL 2020 should they wish to do so.

• The following players have to date confirmed they will not take any further part in the HBL PSL 2020:

 Karachi Kings – Alex Hales

 Multan Sultans – Rilee Rossouw and James Vince

 Peshawar Zalmi – Tom Banton, Carlos Brathwaite, Liam Dawson, James Foster (coach), Lewis Gregory and Liam Livingstone

 Quetta Gladiators – Jason Roy and Tymal Mills

• As per the event regulations, the teams will be allowed player replacements, which will have to be approved by the Event Technical Committee

• The PCB will continue to assess and monitor the situation and make decisions as appropriate in consultation with the team owners

• No player has to date tested positive for Coronavirus

• No discussion has taken place as yet with regards to the upcoming Pakistan Cup One-Day Tournament and home international matches against Bangladesh

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said: “This remains an evolving and unprecedented situation with a number of moving parts that require constant and regular monitoring.

“Today, the PCB and the team owners, as part of their duty of care, have decided to give all the players the option to decide if they wish to return home. Ensuring that the players feel comfortable remains paramount to the PCB.

“As of now, it is important to emphasise and clarify that the main concern of many of the 10 players and a coach, who have chosen to return home, revolves around avoiding a potential situation where they might become stranded either due to flight cancellations or border closures in their own countries.

“The PCB will facilitate their safe return and will ensure the same for all of the players and support staff personnel who decide to withdraw from HBL PSL 2020.

“As stated previously, we will continue to assess and review the situation and will not hesitate to make what we believe are the right decisions for everyone involved.”
 
If one cricketer catches it it’s all over, cancel it PCB going on like they’re hosting a World Cup!
 
I thought PCB would be professional under Mani/Wasim.

These are the situations where it counts.

But they are being extremely immature and unprofessional. Just cancel the PSL. It was good. You won.

Now finish it! Times call for its cancellation! Everything in the world is getting canceled.

Why act so egotistic and immature?
 
Why should PSL be canceled. With empty stadiums and fewer overseas players, it will look exactly like how it used to be in Dubai.

Meanwhile, sponsors will be able to place their ads during strategic time outs.
 
They are gonna play in empty stadiums, how is anybody gonna catch the virus unless somebody already has it? Just one week of the tournament is remaining.
 
the English Premier league has been suspended. cases are rising in the UK. at the moment cases in pakistan are low but this could be because of the lack of testing and proper health care but also because the virus hasnt really penetrated beyond a few urban centres.

The PSL has a handful of matches left, they should play the final few matches and the final as quickly has possible. According to modelling Pakistan has not hit any peak so they can finish off what has been a successful tournament.
 
hundred percent finish it...just heard the new schedule now...semis and finals to be played i guess that is sensible aswell
 
HBL PSL 2020 update: Lahore matches to be played behind closed doors

Lahore, 13 March 2020:

Following an advice from the Punjab Government, the Pakistan Cricket Board has decided the final-leg matches of the HBL Pakistan Super League 2020 in Lahore will be played behind closed doors.

The decision will not impact accredited commercial partners, media and other service providers, who will be allowed to enter the Gaddafi Stadium.

In addition, immediate families of the competing players and player support personnel as well as franchise owners will be allowed to attend matches.

As was the case for Karachi matches, the PCB has taken this step as a precaution and to better protect the health and safety of all those involved in the matches.

Spectators who have already purchased tickets for Lahore matches, will be given full refund as per the PCB ticketing policy, through TCS and Yayvo. Details in this regard will be shared in due course.

Upcoming Lahore matches:

15 Mar – Multan Sultans v Lahore Qalandars (2pm-5.15pm)

17 Mar – 1st semi-final (1 v 4) (2pm-5.15pm); 2nd semi-final (2 v 3) (7pm-10.15pm)

18 Mar – Final (7pm-10.15pm)

ICC Medical Advisory Committee’s advisory:
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol if soap and water are not available
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoid close contact with sick people
• Avoid travel if you are sick
• If you have a cough or fever, then seek medical review
• Stay home when you are sick
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
 
This has now been reduced to the Quaid e Azam Domestic Tournament now
 
PCB CE Wasim Khan speaking to the press


"It was important for us to finish off this tournament, we spoke to our overseas players and gave them an option to leave or stay"

"We will also play in empty stadiums in Lahore on advice of Punjab Govt"

"We have shortened the schedule of the PSL so we can shorten the tournament"

"I have spoken to BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury, and he will consult with his cricket Board and then he will speak to me - we will see the result of this consultation in 2-3 days and let you know what it is"

"Our decision making is based upon providing a safe environment and the well being is assured of all the people who attend and play the games"

"No player has tested positive and tomorrow there will be few more tests; There have been no symptoms (of Coronavirus) apart from common colds and thankfully the PSL is going unscathed in terms of the (health) of all players"

"We are doing blanket Coronavirus testing on all players and not one specific players"

"There is no issue as we are applying for ICC events of 2021-2023; Every country is in the same problem as us due to the Pandemic"

"In the next 24 hrs we will share the impact of playing games in empty stadiums"

"We have local players - When PZ had an issue with their squad due to overseas players leaving, they selected local players which will give them opportunities to perform"
 
I thought PCB would be professional under Mani/Wasim.

These are the situations where it counts.

But they are being extremely immature and unprofessional. Just cancel the PSL. It was good. You won.

Now finish it! Times call for its cancellation! Everything in the world is getting canceled.

Why act so egotistic and immature?

Because IU are losing.:misbah:misbah:salute:salute
 
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