‘Like living under COVID’, say Pakistan due to ‘stifling’ World Cup security

Saturday, 4 November 2023 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

BENGALURU (AFP): Pakistan team director Mickey Arthur on Friday described the tight security facing his team at the World Cup in India as “stifling”, leaving players feeling as if they are “back in COVID times”.

Arthur’s comments came a day ahead of the team’s crucial match against New Zealand which Pakistan must win to keep their hopes alive of reaching the semi-finals.

Several Pakistan players have already suffered fever and flu at various stages of the tournament which fast bowler Hasan Ali attributed to “room sickness.” Players are not allowed to venture out of their hotel without heavy security, forcing them to spend most of their time in hotel rooms.

“As a Pakistan team, we play a hell of a lot of cricket so being on the road is nothing new for these guys,” said Arthur.

“What has been tough is the fact that we’ve been under a massive amount of security. So, I’ve been sort of taken aback.

“I found it difficult. It’s almost like we’ve been back in the COVID times, where you were almost secluded to your floor and your team room.

“So much so that their breakfast is in a separate room to everybody else. That’s been the tough aspect.” Pakistan are playing a tournament in India for the first time since 2016.