The first Test of the three-match Test series between England and Pakistan is slated to start on 1st December 2022, Thursday. However, it has been understood that the officials are planning to postpone the match as a majority of the English players are down with an unidentified virus.
More than half of their playing squad has fallen to illness and, thus, the England Cricket Board is asking for a 24-hour postponement of the first Test.
A statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board said: ‘The PCB and ECB are in discussions regarding the commencement of the first Test as some England players are down with the viral infection.
‘The PCB continues to monitor the situation, is in contact with the ECB, and will provide further updates in due course.’
Only five players attended the practice session on the eve of the first Test. Rest, all other players were advised to stay inside their hotel rooms.
England’s Test skipper, Ben Stokes and senior fast bowler, James Anderson are among the players who have been hit by the virus. The five players who attended the practice session were Ollie Pope, Keaton Jennings, Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Zak Crawley.
Jack Leach, who has Crohn’s disease and takes immunosuppressant medication, which weakens his immune system, is suffering from symptoms but is said to be fine.
‘It’s such a monumental tour and important series for so many reasons.
‘We’ve waited 17 years to come to Pakistan to play a Test match. It means waiting another day, is that the worst thing in the world?”, Former England skipper Joe Root said.
‘We’re all desperate to play this game and we know how important it is to the fans of Pakistan and their team as well. We don’t think it’s Covid or food-related. We’re hoping it’s just a 24-hour bug and everyone is fit and ready to go tomorrow.’ He added.
