New Zealand cancels their Pakistan tour hours before start of first ODI

Islamabad : In a shocking development from the cricket field, New Zealand has cancelled their Pakistan tour hours before the start of their first ODI game against Pakistan. The black caps were scheduled to play first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.

The decision has been taken in wake of security concerns. The New Zealand team is now making arrangements for the safe return of its players.

According to an NZC release: "The side was to play Pakistan this evening in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five match T20 series. However, 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. Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure."

NZC chief executive David White said it was simply not possible to continue with the tour given the advice he was receiving. NZC said arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure.

The New Zealand Cricket team has not disclosed anything about the security threats to the team in the nation.

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