The players and team members of PSL 2021 have arrived in the UAE on Thursday and began a quarantine period, at the end of which the league will resume a disrupted sixth season.
PSL 2021 Set to Begin in UAE
Owing to the surge in COVID19 cases inside the bio bubble PCB earlier postponed the PSL 2021 which have rescheduled to play from June 1 to 20 in UAE.
PSL franchise heads speak about handling the heat temperature which might result in players’ dehydration.
“We have a strategy to use coconut water as much as we can to maintain body temperature. We need to keep the boys hydrated and avoid the risk of cramping. Since most of the games will be played at night, we are not worried about heat strokes,” Mohammad Akram, Peshawar Zalmi head coach, was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.
“It’s more about how we combat the humidity. Hence, the use of coconut water helps us against the risk of losing electrolytes from the body. I am not sure if more than two or three extra breaks are feasible in between the innings but we plan to supply coconut water at the boundary especially for the bowlers,” he added.
A report in ESPNcricinfo added, ‘franchises are investing in ice vests for their players to wear on the field and there has been talk of using lighter material for team kits’.
Naseem Shah Ruled out
Earlier, it was learned that Naseem Shah was ruled out of the tournament after a protocol breach. He arrived at the hotel on May 24 and presented a test report from May 18. As per the guidelines, the players were supposed to give a report from not more than 48 hours before arrival.
“The PCB doesn’t take any pride in releasing a young fast bowler from its marquee event, but if we will ignore this breach, we will potentially put at risk the entire event. We appreciate Quetta Gladiators for accepting this decision, as it confirms we are all aligned to strictly following and implementing the protocols, ”Babar Hamid, the director and commercial head of PSL 6, was quoted as saying.
“This decision will also send out a loud and clear message to all involved in the remaining matches that the PCB will not compromise on any violations and will expel the player or player support personnel irrespective of his stature and standing in the game if they are found to be flouting the prescribed protocols or regulations,” he added.
However, later it was learned he was allowed to join the bubble. Shah is in isolation before his departure to the UAE. The youngster will travel to Abu Dhabi along with the contingent left behind by the first flight that took 202 personnel.
