Pakistan opening batsman Fakhar Zaman will miss the upcoming tour of New Zealand, after developing potential COVID-19 symptoms.
On Saturday, Zaman tested negative for the virus, but developed a fever the following day, while isolating with the rest of the team.
With the team departing from Lahore on Monday, the Pakistan Cricket Board has opted to withdraw the 30-year-old from their travelling team.
"Fakhar's COVID test report was received on Saturday and came out negative, but today he picked up fever," says Pakistan team doctor Sohail Saleem. "As soon as his condition was reported, he was isolated from the rest of the squad in the team hotel.
"We are constantly monitoring his condition and remain hopeful of his quick recovery. However, he is not fit to travel with the squad and, as such, has been withdrawn from the touring party."
A replacement player wasn't named, meaning Abdullah Shafique and Haider Ali will likely open the batting in the Twenty20 series. Zaman was not in contention for a place in Pakistan's test side.
A total of 34 players and 15 officials are travelling with the team to New Zealand, and they will need to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.
Pakistan will play three T20 and two tests against the Blackcaps, starting December 18.
Join us on November 27 for live updates of the Blackcaps v West Indies T20 series.
