The ODI series between hosts Pakistan and the West Indies set to start this weekend has been postponed until June.

This is due to a Covid-19 outbreak among the visitors.

Five members of the West Indies squad – including three players – tested positive for Covid on Thursday, in addition to four cases reported this past weekend.

The three-match series, which was due to start Saturday, is part of the qualifying round for the 2023 World Cup.

The matches will be rescheduled for June next year, a statement from officials said, adding the decision was taken to protect players and acknowledge the limited resources left in the West Indies squad.

Despite the outbreak, a third T20I match between the two sides went ahead on Thursday, with a depleted West Indies winning the toss and electing to bat.

Pakistan won the first two matches.

The cancellation of the ODI series is a huge blow to Pakistan, which has seen tours by New Zealand and England called off in recent months on security grounds.

West Indies officials said the latest positive test results in the squad came from wicketkeeper-batter Shai Hope, left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein, all-rounder Justin Greaves, assistant coach Roddy Estwick, and physician Akshai Mansingh.

Left-arm pace bowler Sheldon Cottrell, and all-rounders Roston Chase and Kyle Mayers, tested positive for Covid on Saturday along with a team official.

Officials said those who tested positive will have to isolate in Karachi before being allowed to travel home.

© Agence France-Presse