Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has lashe out at New Zealand Cricket (NZC) following a final warning to Babar Azam’s side after six players were tested positive for COVID-9, courtesy a breach of quarantine rules.
“NZC has also been made aware that some members of the Pakistan team had contravened protocols on the first day of managed isolation. We will be having discussions with the tourists to assist them in understanding the requirements,” NZC said in a press-release.
“NZC considers public health and safety to be paramount in the hosting of international teams, and is supportive of the Ministry of Health and Government position.”
To which Akhtar replied, “New Zealand’s comment that if Pakistan’s team’s SOP is not in place then we will cancel the tour is below the belt. I want to give a message to New Zealand board [NZC] that this is not a club team, it’s Pakistan National Cricket Team,” he said.
‘We don’t need you. Our cricket has not finished. You will get the broadcasting rights money. So, you should be indebted to us that we decided to tour your country in such difficult times,” Shoaib Akhtar said.
”You talking about Pakistan- the greatest country on the planet- so behave yourself and stop giving such statement. Be careful next time. Pakistan team now needs to smash them in T20I series,” Akhtar added.
