The crisis situation in Afghanistan has put New Zealand’s tour of Pakistan scheduled to take place later this year in jeopardy. The New Zealand cricketers board has expressed security concerns and will revisit the protocols for the tour.
Earlier, this month, the New Zealand cricket Board announced their tour of Pakistan for the first time in 18 years. As it clashes with the second phase of IPL 2021, the likes of Kane Williamson, Kyle Jamieson, Trent Boult, and Lockie Ferguson will not be available. The tour comprises three ODIs and five T20Is. However, the New Zealand Cricket Board has decided to reassess the security arrangements in Pakistan for the tour.
Pakistan announces New Zealand tour itinerary
More details ➡️ https://t.co/AhwCN6XxXD#PAKvNZ | #HarHaalMainCricket
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) August 5, 2021
Players concerned about their security: New Zealand Cricket Players Association chief
Heath Mills, New Zealand Cricket Players Association’s Chief Executive revealed to stuff.co.nz that the players are concerned about their security on the tour of Pakistan, given the current crisis situation in Afghanistan. He said:
“We’re very comfortable with the process we’ve got, but notwithstanding that, with events in Afghanistan in the last few days, it’s very sad what’s happening in that country and people are obviously asking questions of our security check processes. That includes players, which is completely understandable. We just need to assure them of the process, and follow it, and reach a determination.”
Will this group bring home the @BLACKCAPS' first #T20WorldCup trophy?
Kane Williamson’s squad has been named 👇 pic.twitter.com/6qmhrRpXOu
— T20 World Cup (@T20WorldCup) August 9, 2021
Heath Mills further added that they will send independent security consultant Reg Dickason to Pakistan. He will check the security arrangements and report back. The decision to go ahead with the tour or cancel it will be taken after the assessment is completed.
“That will take him four or five days and then he’ll report back, and recommend whether the tour goes ahead, or it doesn’t for whatever reason. If there are changes to whatever the plan might be. And at any point, if he’s uncomfortable he would communicate that and the team would exit Pakistan,” Heath Mills said.
