https://arab.news/phtzn
- The country's cricket authority says spectators will only be able to enter the stadium under strict COVID-19 protocols
- Last year, the Pakistan Super League tournament was postponed for a few months due to the coronavirus pandemic
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Wednesday a limited number of people would be able to watch the first phase of a popular Twenty20 cricket tournament by going to the venue after the government allowed 25 percent of the total stadium capacity during the matches in Karachi.
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) brings together some of the best cricket talent from across the world and has a major following in Pakistan and the rest of the region.
However, the competition had to be postponed for a few months last year after a number of players tested positive for COVID-19.
Pakistan is witnessing another increase in the number of new coronavirus infections while Karachi - where the first few PSL matches are scheduled to be played - has an alarmingly high positivity ratio.
"The National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) has approved 25 per cent crowd attendance for the HBL Pakistan Super League 2022 Karachi-leg matches, which will be played at the National Stadium from 27 January to 7 February," the PCB said in a statement on its website. "The decision means around 8,000 spectators will be allowed inside the venue each match day."
The country's cricket board added that the spectators' entry would be subject to strict coronavirus protocols.
"Individuals above the age of 12 years must be fully vaccinated," it continued. "Valid vaccination certificates must be shown while gaining access to the stadium."
The PCB informed it was also mandatory for all spectators to wear protective face masks, adding that anyone violating the official healthcare guidelines would be "evicted from the stadium."
PCB Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer welcomed the development, saying: "Spectators are the essence of any sport event and in this background, we now hope to set the stage with 25 per cent crowds to attend the Karachi matches of the HBL PSL 2022. As a responsible organization, we completely understand our obligations in relation to health and safety of the fans and will leave no stone unturned in strictly implementing the NCOC guidelines."
He also requested the spectators to abide by the COVID-19 protocols to enjoy the matches in a safe and secure environment.
The PCB said the country's central pandemic response body would take a decision regarding other matches of the tournament ahead of the next phase beginning in Lahore.