18 September,2021 07:28 AM IST | Rawalpindi | PTI
PCB chief Ramiz Raja
The New Zealand cricket team on Friday abandoned its ongoing tour of Pakistan just before the start of the first ODI here, citing a security threat which the host board insisted did not exist while declaring the pullout a unilateral move.
This was New Zealand's first tour of Pakistan in 18 years and the series comprised three ODIs and five T20I. Spectators were also to be allowed at 25 per cent of the stadium capacity keeping in mind the Covid-19 factor. The Pakistan Cricket Board chief Ramiz Raja said New Zealand will have to answer for the pullout at the ICC.
"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," he tweeted.
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Trouble began when the first ODI of the white-ball series could not begin on time at the Rawalpindi stadium on Friday with both teams remaining in their hotel rooms.
New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White eventually issued a statement to say that it was simply not possible to continue with the tour given the advice he was receiving from his government. The Black Caps have been here since September 11.
"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," he stated Pakistan captain Babar Azam said he was disheartened by the turn of events.
"Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans," he tweeted. "I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!" he said.
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