The England Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday decided to cancel its tour to Pakistan days after New Zealand had pulled its team out at the last minute ahead of its series due to “security” concerns.
Expressing regret, ECB said, “we understand that this decision will be a significant disappointment to the PCB”, who have worked tirelessly to host the return of international cricket in their country.
The ECB, however, said the “mental and physical well-being” of its players and support staff remains their highest priority, and this was even more critical given the times “we are currently living in”.
“We understand that this decision will be a significant disappointment to the PCB, who have worked tirelessly to host the return of international cricket in their country. Their support of English and Welsh cricket over the last two summers has been a huge demonstration of friendship. We are sincerely sorry for the impact this will have on cricket in Pakistan and emphasize an ongoing commitment to our main touring plans there for 2022.”
The news comes as a huge disappointment for the Pakistan Cricket Board and fans alike who were eagerly waiting for the tour. This was going to be England’s first tour to the country since 2004-05.
ECB was set to send both its men’s and women’s cricket teams to Pakistan next month. The men’s team was scheduled to play two T20Is as part of their preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup, however, the decision now means that the Pakistan cricket team will go into the tournament without playing any international T20 cricket prior to the mega event.
Earlier, it was speculated that England will likely cancel the series like New Zealand, however, PCB CEO, Wasim Khan, has expressed hope that the English teams will travel to Pakistan as scheduled.
