ISLAMABAD, September,18, (Asia Free Press): International cricketers expressed great concerns over New Zealand cricket board decision to abandoned Pakistan series just minutes before the first scheduled match.
West Indies cricketer Daren Sammy said he has disappointed by the decision.
“Disappointed waking up to the news of the cancellation of Pakistan vs New Zealand series because of security issues,” he tweeted.
“Over the last 6 years playing and visiting Pakistan has been one of the most enjoyable experiences. I’ve always felt safe. This is a massive blow to Pakistan,” he added.
Sri Lankan cricketer Angelo Perera also rejected the insecurity situation in Pakistan and said he enjoyed his stay in Pakistan during his team tour two year ago.
“Toured TheRealPCB 2 years back and really enjoyed every minute of our stay!! Felt extremely welcomed and also safe tbh! Never had any doubt. Genuinely wanna see cricket return to this great nation!”
Perera recalls his last visit to Pakistan two years ago, terming “every minute of it enjoyable and safe.”
The cricketer wishes for the sport to return to Pakistan.
Former NZ batting all-rounder Grant Elliott wrote
“Sad news for players and fans,”
Another former cricketer and cricket commentator from NZ, Danny Morrison, expresses shock over the abrupt decision and termed it “super sad”.
“Super sad!! Don’t know enough what’s going on??!… But truly love travelling around #Pakistan & cricket times of late in Pakistan. Feel for all there.”
WI cricketer Sherfane Rutherford twitted that Pakistan is the ‘safest’ country to host cricket tournaments.
In his post, Rutherford said that the announcement by the NZ is “not a good news” for cricket fans.
“Feelings for my Pakistani friends, not a good news for cricket lovers. I’ve travelled to many countries. Pakistani is the safest country for cricket and cricket loving country.”
Former South African Cricketer Rilee Rossouw also express dismay over the cancellation of Pakistan tour.
“Very sad to see the cancellation of the New Zealand tour to Pakistan.”
Sri Lankan Cricketer Dimuth Karunarathna twitted
“Sad to note NZ tour of PK has been called off…
2 years ago @TheRealPCB security made sure we were ultra safe thro the entire tour with security protocol generally provided for Heads of State.”
South African Cricketer David Wiese also rejected the security excuse and said he always felt safe in Pakistan.
“I have always enjoyed myself in Pakistan, the people are very welcoming and the security has never been an issue.”
