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Friday, April 26, 2024  
17 Shawwal 1445  

Conspiracy behind NZ cricket cancelling tour says Sh Rasheed

Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed has said that there is no security issue in Pakistan and all security agencies are...
Sheikh Rasheed also said New Zealand does not substantive evidence of threat. File photo
Sheikh Rasheed also said New Zealand does not substantive evidence of threat. File photo

Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed has said there is no security issue in Pakistan and all security agencies are on high alert, adding that Pakistan had made tight security arrangements for the New Zealand cricket team.

The federal minister's press conference comes in response to New Zealand cricket team's abrupt decision to abandon the Pakistan tour following “a New Zealand government security alert”.

Rashid termed the cancelation of New Zealand Cricket's tour a conspiracy against Pakistan's efforts for peace.

"Pakistan Cricket Board and Pakistan Government made foolproof security arrangements for all visiting teams. We have assured the New Zealand Cricket of the same," the minister said.

Pakistan and New Zealand were to play the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi today, 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 New Zealand team will not continue with the tour,” the statement reads.

“Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure,” it added.

NZC chief executive David White said it was simply not possible to continue with the tour given the advice he was receiving.

“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.”

In related news, the new Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board Ramiz Raja in his tweet regretted New Zealand Cricket's decision and said he would challenge their decision in ICC.

"Feel so sorry for the fans and our players," Ramiz wrote in his tweet.

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Sheikh Rasheed

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