Six members of the Pakistan cricket team touring squad in New Zealand have tested positive for Covid-19 in managed isolation in Christchurch.
Chateau on the Park Hotel in Christchurch is one of the isolation facilities. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
New Zealand Cricket confirmed the news on Thursday, adding that two of the six results had been deemed "historical".
All six squad members would be moved to the quarantine arm of the managed isolation facility, while the team's exemption to train had been put on hold until investigations had been completed.
Prior to leaving Pakistan, all members of the touring squad had returned negative results on the four occasions they were tested.
"While this is disappointing for the Pakistan squad, the testing outcomes and the actions taken show the Government system is working," NZC said in a statement.
In addition to the positive tests, NZC said 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 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."
Pakistan, who arrived in New Zealand on Tuesday, were set to face the Black Caps in three T20s and two test matches, starting on December 20.