New Zealand have called off their tour of Pakistan citing security concerns, leaving the crickets fans utterly disappointed as everyone was looking forward to the PAK VS NZ series.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja was critical of the decision made by New Zealand. “Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it is not shared! Which world is NZ living in? NZ will hear us at ICC.” tweeted Ramiz Raja after the cancellation of the PAK vs NZ series.
Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC.
— Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) September 17, 2021
The New Zealand tour of Pakistan, comprising of three ODIs and five T20Is, was suppose to start today, with the first ODI match in Rawalpindi. However, New Zealand cancelled the tour before the teams even left their hotel on the morning of the game while spectators were not allowed to enter the stadium.
“Following an escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, and advice from NZC security advisors on the ground, it has been decided the Blackcaps will not continue with the tour.” stated NZC in a statement after announcing the cancellation of the PAK VS NZ series.
“I understand this will be a blow for the PCB, who have been wonderful hosts, but player safety is paramount and we believe this is the only responsible option,” NZC chief executive David White said in the statement.
However, the NZC did not disclose details of the security threat citing safety of their departing squad.
The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert.
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 17, 2021
Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure.
More information | https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu
Meanwhile, the PCB also released a statement regarding the cancellation of the New Zealand tour of Pakistan. “Earlier today, New Zealand Cricket informed us they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series.” stated PCB.
“Pakistan Cricket Board and Pakistan Government made foolproof security arrangements for all visiting teams. We have assured the New Zealand Cricket of the same. The Pakistan Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team.”
“The security officials with the New Zealand team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Pakistan Government throughout their stay here. PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal.” said the PCB.
Read more: PCB Announces Pakistan T20 World Cup 2021 Squad.
