THE lull in sporting events triggered by outbreak of Covid-19 is also coming to an end after ease in restrictions. The German Football League took the lead as it restarted on Sunday amidst strict measures such as stadiums were kept empty. Indeed this is post-Corona era and everybody will have to adapt to this new situation in order to keep themselves and other safe.
Since World Health Organisation (WHO) and health experts are predicting that Corona Virus may never go away and populations will have to live with it like HIV, the routine life including sports events or business activities cannot be kept suspended for a prolonged period. With similar sentiments, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also agreed in principle to tour England this July to play three tests and three T-Twenty internationals. We understand this very decision of the PCB will also encourage other cricket playing nations to take to grounds but it is important that sufficient measures are put in place for safety and security of players. Cue can also be taken from German Foot Ball League where mass tests were carried out of players, coaches and backroom staff ahead of League matches. For cricket matches also, players should be tested regularly and anybody tested positive must be separated from rest of the team. Similarly, the fans should not be allowed to visit stadiums rather they should be persuaded to enjoy matches from home screens. In fact both soccer and cricket are most liked games in the world and people want to see their favourite players and teams in action. By organising games in a safe environment will definitely help countries such as Pakistan to provide a reason and entertainment to people to stay at homes. Currently there is no antidote to the virus but sporting events can prove to be important tool to halt its spread. Apart from organising semi-finals and final of PSL, the PCB should also hold negotiations with other world teams and invite them to visit Pakistan to play especially limited over games.
