PSL 2021: Haider Ali, Umaid Asif ruled out of final after breaching bio bubble

Peshawar Zalmi will lock horns with Multan Sultans in the final of the 2021 edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. Ahead of the much-anticipated final, Zalmi have been dealt with a massive blow as it is learned that their two players, Haider Ali and Umaid Asif have been suspended from the match.

The entire PSL 2021 is being conducted in a strict bio-secure bubble in the wake of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. However, Haider and Umaid breached the bio-secure bubble by meeting the people from outside and failing to maintain the social distancing and other coronavirus protocols.

The bubble breach took place on Wednesday, June 23, and both the players have admitted to the charges of violating the health and safety protocols. After a thorough inspection, the COVID-19 management panel comprising Barrister Salman Naseer (PCB, Chief Operating Officer) and Babar Hamid (Director – Commercial, and PSL 6 head) decided to suspend both the cricketers. 

However, the big bubble breach won’t affect the final as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released an official statement stating that both the players didn’t interact with any other team members after meeting the people from outside and as of now have been put under room isolation. 

“The two cricketers were found not to have interacted with any other squad members at any time after the incident and have been placed in room isolation,” stated an official release.

Sohaib Maqsood named as a replacement for Haider Ali

There will be serious repercussions for Haider Ali for breaking the protocols. It is reported that the 20-year-old batsman has also been excluded from the Pakistan squad for the England and West Indies tour. Notably, Pakistan is all set to resume international duties with a Pakistan tour of England.  

The limited-overs tour comprises three One Day Internationals followed by as many T20 Internationals. After England, Pakistan will travel to West Indies to participate in the five T20 Internationals and two Test matches. 

Meanwhile, Chair of the Selectors Muhammad Wasim, in consultation with captain Babar Azam and head coach Misbah-ul-Haq, has picked Sohaib Maqsood as Haider Ali’s replacement in the Pakistan team. Sohaib impressed with his performance in the PSL 2021 as he scored 363 runs in 11 matches at an average of 40.33 and a strike rate of just under 153.