PSL: Coronavirus outbreak prompts foreign players' exodus

The PCB gave all foreign and local players the option to withdraw from the tournament

LAHORE (Web Desk) – In light of the increasing number of coronavirus cases in Pakistan, many foreign players have opted to leave the country despite only 4 days remaining in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season five’s conclusion.

Among the major decisions taken amidst the viral outbreak, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced to hold all remaining matches behind closed doors to mitigate the spread of the virus. The length of the tournament was also cut down to finish it in the least amount of time possible and on Friday, PCB gave all foreign and local players the option to withdraw their participation from the tournament, if they were willing to do so.

Up till now, a total of 14 players and one team official has abandoned the tournament and chosen to return home.

Peshawar Zalmi

  - Tom Banton 

  - Carlos Braithwaite

  - Lewis Gregory

  - Liam Dawson

  - Liam Livingstone

  - James Foster (Coach)

 Islamabad United

  - Luke Ronchi

  - Colin Munro

  - Dale Steyn

 Multan Sultans

  - James Vince

  - Riley Rossouw

 Quetta Gladiators

  - Tymal Mills

  - Jason Roy

 Karachi Kings

  - Alex Hales.

It is important to mention that all foreign players and coaching staff of Lahore Qalandars have opted to play out the rest of the tournament, much to the joy of their fans.

Talking to the media in Lahore, Ben Dunk said that as things stand now, he is at ease in staying in Pakistan. He also took this opportunity to thank the Lahore Qalandars’ fans for sticking by the team through thick and thin and expressed that he wants to repay their faith in the remaining matches of the PSL.