AUS vs PAK: CA introduces alcohol-free ‘Pakistan Bay’ at Perth Stadium

Optus Stadium. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Pakistan are preparing for the three-match Test series against Australia, starting December 14. In a commendable move towards inclusivity, Cricket Australia has announced the creation of a special ‘Pakistan bay’ exclusively dedicated to the visiting team’s fans. The bay is set to be open during the first Test in Perth, with an aim to provide a cherished atmosphere for Pakistan supporters amidst an expected crowd of 18,000.

With an emphasis on catering to the preferences of the touring team and its fans, the Pakistan Bay will be an alcohol-free zone. Additionally, the organisers have arranged for tea, halal, and desi food options, ensuring a diverse and family-friendly experience within the stadium premises.

“Perth Stadium has designated two zones surrounding the Pakistan dressing room exclusively as the ‘Pakistan Bay’, providing a focal point for Pakistan fans to unite and fervently support their team. In a commendable move towards inclusivity, the Pakistan Bay has been declared an alcohol-free zone, fostering a family-friendly environment. Tea, Halal, and Desi food options will be available, further enriching the communal spirit within the Pakistan Bay,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.

After lodging their bags at airport Pakistan team left with no doctor

However, the lead-up to the series has not been without its hurdles for the Pakistani squad as visa and passport issues havw left the national senior cricket team in Australia without an appointed doctor. Sohail Saleem, the designated team doctor for the Australia-New Zealand series, failed to join the contingent in time, posing a concern for the team’s medical support.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board is still trying to get a visa for Dr Saleem and as soon as it comes he will join the side in Australia in time for the first Test in Perth. Shoaib had some expired passport issues which the board is sorting out and hopefully he will also soon reach UAE to take charge,” a reliable source in the PCB said as quoted by NDTV.