The England Cricket Board (ECB) released a statement on Monday confirming that both the men’s and women’s team will no longer be touring Pakistan in October. The ECB had previously agreed to play two additional T20 World Cup warm-up games in Pakistan in October. They also added a short women’s tour with double headers alongside the men’s games.
The ECB decision comes after the New Zealand team abruptly ended their limited overs tour on Friday. Following an escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, and advice from NZC security advisors on the ground, it was decided that BLACKCAPS will not continue with the tour.
“We can confirm that the Board has reluctantly decided to withdraw both teams from the October trip.”
🇵🇰 #PAKvENG 🏴
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) September 20, 2021
The ECB released a statement stating that the current situation in Pakistan will add more mental pressure on players and support staff.
“The mental and physical well-being of our players and support staff remains our highest priority and this is even more critical given the times we are currently living in. We know there are increasing concerns about travelling to the region and believe that going ahead will add further pressure to a playing group who have already coped with a long period of operating in restricted Covid environments,” ECB said in a statement.
“There is the added complexity for our Men’s T20 squad. We believe that touring under these conditions will not be ideal preparation for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, where performing well remains a top priority for 2021,” ECB added.
England Cricket Board promises to tour Pakistan in 2022
The ECB further apologized to the Pakistan Cricket Board as they understand this will have a severe impact on Pakistan cricket. They also acknowledged the support Pakistan showed them for the last two years by touring England in Covid times. They also promise to fulfill their commitment of touring Pakistan in 2022.
“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 emphasise an ongoing commitment to our main touring plans there for 2022.”
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