Due to growing tensions in the Middle East, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has cancelled the current tour of England Lions to the UAE.
There was a series against Pakistan Shaheens but all activities have now been suspended.
The second ODI in the 5-match series in the white ball format was called off. The other three matches had also been cancelled as part of the decision.
The ECB is now organising the safe return of players and support staff in England.
Alongside the cancellation of the tour, the consequent scheduled training camp of the England Women’s Cricket Team in Abu Dhabi has also been cancelled.
The camp was planned keeping in mind the upcoming T20 World Cup.
The ECB said that it is looking at alternative venues and options for the women’s preparation camp. Officials stated that security and logistical issues contributed to this decision and more will follow.
In other developments, the National T20 Tournament shifted from Peshawar to Rawalpindi in a move taken by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The change has been made due to increasing tension along the Pak-Afghan border and security issues.
The date earlier for this tournament was March 5 at Imran Khan Cricket Stadium, Peshawar. The venue already had the hosting rights.
Under the revised plan, league matches will be played at Pindi Cricket Stadium from March 5th till March 14th. Peshawar will now host only the two semi-finals on March 16 and final match on March 17.
Although the PCB didn’t officially state the reason for the sudden change, it is suggested that security reasons led to that decision, as per the sources.
