The authorities of Australia and New Zealand have ordered their cricket players not to visit Pakistan for the upcoming Champion’s Trophy. This news clearly shows that there are chances of the boycott of the international one-day tournament by these countries.
The cricket player’s unions of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa showed their disappointment over the ICC decision on Thursday. As you know that, International Cricket Council decided in its meeting not to shift Champions Trophy to other country.
The Australian Cricketer’s Association (ACA) showed their serious concerns about the safety of their cricketers. It is said that the issue is not resolved. On the basis of this argument they suggest their players not to travel Pakistan to participate in the September event.
Remember that Champions Trophy tournament is regarded as the second most significant cricket event after World Cup. All of these concerns were expressed by ACA chief executive Paul Marsh.
Paul Marsh said that we got reports from the independent resources that the security risks are great in Pakistan.
We received advice from governing authorities that this time players should not visit Pakistan.
The senior and leading players of Australian cricket team also showed their reservations about this tour to Pakistan. Australia has already dropped the planned visit to Pakistan earlier this year because of the same security threats.that was the period just after Benazir Bhutto’s assassination.
The Cricket Australia (CA) said that the safety of their players is of utmost importance. It is said that they will interact with both parties – players and government officials – before making any decision regarding visiting Pakistan.
CA general manager Peter Young said that we are committed not to send players or cricket officials anywhere which is not safe.
That is our fundamental principle.
Heath Mills, who is the boss of New Zealand Cricket Players Association, also warned their cricketers not to visit Pakistan. After this news, New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan said that he would talk to the players union. Mills talking to the radio said that it was totally unexpected and poor decision from ICC.
