Sunday, June 22, 2008

PCB Allay Security Fears

The Pakistan Cricket Board have dismissed fears over security when the country hosts the Champions Trophy in September.

Several Australia and New Zealand players have announced this week that they would refuse to travel to Pakistan regardless of assurances on safety from the International Cricket Council.

However, a delegation of ICC officials, including security experts, visited Lahore, Karachi and Rawalpindi - the three venues - and declared they were satisfied with the arrangements.

ICC president Ray Mali has predictably given Pakistan a boost by saying the PCB was well prepared to host the tournament.

PCB director of cricket operations Zakir Khan told The News the board is yet to receive official communication on the matter from either Australia or New Zealand.

"We've been hearing through media reports that there may be concerns among some of the players about the Champions Trophy," Zakir said.

"But we are not taking any of it seriously unless there is an official confirmation from the boards of those countries."

An ICC official claimed the world body was ready to deal with any reservations which teams or players had about playing in Pakistan.

"We will deal with any team's concerns and reservations when the need arises (but) let's not answer hypothetical questions at this stage," said ICC communication manager Samiul-Hasan.

"The ICC and the PCB have set high standards for the tournament and we will ensure the event fits those standards."

The ICC will make a final decision on whether Pakistan will host the tournament at their executive meeting in Dubai on June 29. Sri Lanka is the alternative host nation.

No comments: