Coconut water and ice vests : PCB's answer to the soaring temperature in UAE

The Pakistan Super League ( PSL) is all set to get underway from June 5. The players have reached Abu Dhabi and are currently undergoing quarantine. However, it's still a massive task for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to conduct the tournament without further interruptions. Their primary concern will be the safety of players and other members as even a single case of COVID-19 will get the tournament in jeopardy. Further, the soaring temperature in Abu Dhabi won't make it easy for the players and can affect their performance and increase the chances of injuries.

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However, the Board seems to have found a way out. The teams will be using coconut water, ice collars and vests and frequent breaks to beat the heat. According to reports, the franchises may also use lighter material for team kits.

“We have a strategy to use coconut water as much as we can to maintain body temperature. We need to keep the boys hydrated and avoid the risk of cramping. Since most of the games will be played at night, we are not worried about heat strokes,” Mohammad Akram, Peshawar Zalmi head coach, was quoted as saying.

Also read: PCB takes U-turn on Naseem Shah, allows him to rejoin PSL bubble - Sky247 Blog

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“It’s more about how we combat the humidity. Hence, the use of coconut water helps us against the risk of losing electrolytes from the body. I am not sure if more than two or three extra breaks are feasible in between the innings but we plan to supply coconut water at the boundary especially for the bowlers,” he added.

Also, they have created three bubbles for the PSL 6. Bubble A is for the players, officials and support staff, bubble B is for the broadcasting crew and key event management personnel and bubble C is for the groundstaff.

The PCB will also use GPS devices to track any bubble breach. Every individual will be given a tracking device that will give a beep sound on any breach.

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