England- Pakistan Series
Several England's player in Pakistan ill ahead of first Test
|| CF DESK ||
England are in disarray on the eve of their first Test in Pakistan, after 13 to 14 members of staff, including half of the 16-man playing squad, fell ill on Wednesday.
The problem is thought to be a virus or bug rather than food poisoning, with England taking extra precautions with the help of a chef, Omar Meziane, who has accompanied the team on this tour.
On Tuesday, however, some players reported feeling ill and were advised to remain in their rooms to reduce the risk of the virus spreading.
England captain Ben Stokes and James Anderson are believed to be among those affected. Jack Leach, who has Crohn's disease and takes immunosuppressant medication, which weakens his immune system, is experiencing symptoms but is otherwise healthy.
Joe Root experienced symptoms on Tuesday but recovered sufficiently to train on Wednesday.
An ECB spokesperson confirmed that the illnesses were not Covid-19 related, with players experiencing vomiting and diarrhoea.
There is hope that the virus will clear in 24 hours, but with the first of three matches beginning on Thursday in Rawalpindi, England's chances of getting off to a strong start have been severely hampered.