New Zealand abandon ODI series vs Pakistan due to security reasons

The ODI series between New Zealand and Pakistan has been abandoned Friday due to ‘security reasons’. The Pakistan Cricket Board announced that they aim to continue the scheduled matches. The match was to take place at Rawalpindi. 

The Kiwis were to play Pakistan at Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five match T20 series.

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“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 BLACKCAPS will not continue with the tour,” the New Zealand Cricket board said in a press release. 

Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure.

“Earlier today, the New Zealand cricket board informed us that they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series,” PCB tweeted. 

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“PCB and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams. The security officials with the NZ team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Govt of Pakistan throughout their stay here.”

NZC chief executive David White said that 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.” 

New Zealand were touring Pakistan for the first time since 2003.