Pakistan 2011 World Cup host status axed
The uncertain security scenario prevailing in Pakistan has prompted the International Cricket Council (ICC) to withdraw the 2011 World Cup host status from the country. Pakistan was to host 14 matches of the 2011 World Cup. The country was set to hold 14 ties, including one semi-final, after being awarded the tournament in conjunction with India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
The decision is said to have come about after the terrorist attack against the Sri Lanka team in Lahore, on March 3, 2009, in which six Sri Lankan cricketers were injured.
According to the ICC, its number one priority was to create a safe, secure and successful event. The ICC Board took the decision after members discussed a report on the attack and its fall-out on the cricketing world.
The tournament secretariat will move from Pakistan to a location to be determined by the tournaments Central Organising Committee.
The 2011 World Cup will now be hosted in three countries, Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka. Test playing nations have been staying away from Pakistan, since 2008.
The 2008 Champion’s Trophy was postponed after top teams refused to tour Pakistan due to security concerns.
ICC officials added that every one can now put uncertainty aside side and prepare for cricket’s biggest and most high-profile event.
The ICC also let it be known that international cricket tournaments may not take place in Pakistan for quite a few years to come.
ICC chairman David Morgan was quoted as saying, “It’s hugely doubtful that Pakistan will stage any international cricket at home before 2011.”
Pointing out that it would not be appropriate for international cricket to take place in Pakistan in the immediate future, the ICC board said that Pakistan should maintain a full programme of matches for its senior and A teams and that member nations would give all possible help.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board is very unhappy with the decision and has said that it has incurred losses of over £7m after losing its 2011 World Cup host status.