Shaheer Ahmed
PSL 7’s matches in National Stadium, Karachi concluded last night. There is a break of two days to refresh and will be back for the rest of the matches held in Qaddafi Stadium, Karachi. In Karachi, the NCOC had allowed 25% of the spectators in the stadium, and the children below 12 were not allowed entry. But the good news is, that in Lahore there would be 50% attendance in the stadiums and after 16th February it would be 100%.
The fifth wave has been deadlier than the previous waves. Precautionary measures and vaccination have been provided by the government. The positivity rate had jumped over 10% which was alarming.
PCB went ahead with the league by taking necessary SOPs for the COVID which has proven successful so far. They had requested the NCOC to increase the crowd attendance for the Lahore matches as the COVID-19 situation was getting better. It was reviewed during a meeting in Islamabad, which was headed by Asad Umar, the Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives.
The NCOC had allowed a 100 percent crowd for the entire tournament. Since the first phase was in Karachi, due to rising cases there the percentage was reduced to 25 percent. The NCOC stated, “50 percent fully vaccinated spectators will be allowed till 15 February and from 16 Feb, 100 percent fully vaccinated fans will be allowed at the Gaddafi Stadium.” The forum also permitted unvaccinated children under 12 to enter the stadium during the Lahore leg.
A match without spectators cheering is nothing. They add spirit and enthusiasm to the game. The player also gets appreciated and encouraged which boosts their morale. Fans have been waiting for the league for the whole year. Watching international players play for the teams, is a feel of another level. Cricket coming back to the home ground is already a piece of news to celebrate, restricting them from enjoying the match will be an injustice to them. We do understand the complexity of the situation that COVID has created, disturbing the normal lives of the people. Yet if proper precautionary measures are taken, the fans will be able to enjoy the game.
We hope and pray that the situation gets better. The positivity rate is declining which is good news. Multan Sultans would be taking over the Zalmi a.k.a the Yellow storm in the first match in Gaddafi Stadium. Stay safe and Stay tuned for more updates.
COVID Positivity Rates Decline: A Good Sign Towards Recovery
