The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.e. on October 17.

The upcoming seventh edition was set to be held in Australia last year, however, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the tournament's postponement. This time around, the marquee event will be held in the UAE with as many as 16 teams participating in the showpiece tournament. Ahead of the T20 WC, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif named his tournament-favourites and also opened up on Babar Azam-led Men in Green's chances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-think-india-can-compete-with-pakistan-thats-why-they-dont-want-to-play-against-us-abdul-razzaq-418367">Don't think India can compete with Pakistan, that's why they don't want to play against us: Abdul Razzaq</a>

In an interview with PTI, Latif said: “India and England appear to be the most balanced sides in the tournament, while West Indies always remain a dangerous side." He further added, "I wouldn't write Pakistan off as if they click they could gain momentum and surprise many people."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/housefull-tickets-sold-out-for-india-pakistan-t20-world-cup-tie-as-marquee-clash-nears-418228">HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears</a>

In the last edition of the T20 WC, held in India, Daren Sammy-led West Indies had emerged on top to clinch their second title. Apart from the Windies, India, Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka have also tasted success once in the earlier editions.&nbsp;

The qualifying round of the T20 WC will start from October 17 whereas the main draw of the event will kick off from October 23. For the unversed, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A whereas India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.

The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.

The whole cricketing fraternity is hooked onto the IPL 2021 edition at present. However, they are also eagerly waiting for the commencement of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will start soon after IPL 14's second and final leg -- i.e. on October 17. The upcoming seventh edition was set to be held in Australia last year, however, the Covid-19 pandemic led to the tournament's postponement. This time around, the marquee event will be held in the UAE with as many as 16 teams participating in the showpiece tournament. Ahead of the T20 WC, former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rashid Latif named his tournament-favourites and also opened up on Babar Azam-led Men in Green's chances. ALSO READ | Don't think India can compete with Pakistan, that's why they don't want to play against us: Abdul Razzaq In an interview with PTI, Latif said: “India and England appear to be the most balanced sides in the tournament, while West Indies always remain a dangerous side." He further added, "I wouldn't write Pakistan off as if they click they could gain momentum and surprise many people." ALSO READ | HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears In the last edition of the T20 WC, held in India, Daren Sammy-led West Indies had emerged on top to clinch their second title. Apart from the Windies, India, Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka have also tasted success once in the earlier editions. The qualifying round of the T20 WC will start from October 17 whereas the main draw of the event will kick off from October 23. For the unversed, Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies are in Pool A whereas India, Pakistan, New Zealand and Afghanistan are placed in Pool B. Two teams, each, will join both the groups from the qualifiers.

India and England most balanced: Former Pakistan captain names favourites for T20 World Cup 2021

While the IPL 2021 edition's second and final leg is underway in the UAE, the cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the forthcoming T20 World Cup to kick off from October 17. The seventh edition of the marquee event will commence from October 17 but the main round will start from October 23.&nbsp;

India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 24 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium. As the blockbuster clash nears, the tickets have been sold out already. As per a report in PakPassion.net, the tickets were bought soon after they became available on the website. For the unversed, the ticket price of the Indo-Pak tie is already double of a regular match ticket, however, the insane craze led to them being sold out instantly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-spare-them-babar-azam-shoaib-akhtar-issues-warning-to-new-zealand-for-t20-world-cup-face-off-after-cancelling-pakistan-tour-414663">Don't spare them, Babar Azam: Shoaib Akhtar issues warning to New Zealand for T20 World Cup face-off after cancelling Pakistan tour</a>

India and Pakistan have met each other in every T20 World Cup edition, barring the 2009 and 2010 editions, in England and West Indies respectively. So far, the Men in Blue have managed to beat their arch-rivals on every occasion in the T20 WC history. Leading the Men in Green 5-0, Virat Kohli-led India will start as overwhelming favourites, however, Babar Azam-led Pakistan cannot be taken lightly as they occupy the third position in ICC T20 rankings.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-ms-dhonis-inclusion-as-mentor-is-huge-boost-to-virat-kohli-and-finishers-in-t20-world-cup-squad-manoj-tiwary-412018">EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary</a>

India and Pakistan's group also comprises New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two other sides will join them from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool A comprises Australia, England, West Indies and South Africa while two more teams will also join them from the qualifying round.

While the IPL 2021 edition's second and final leg is underway in the UAE, the cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the forthcoming T20 World Cup to kick off from October 17.

While the IPL 2021 edition's second and final leg is underway in the UAE, the cricket fans are eagerly waiting for the forthcoming T20 World Cup to kick off from October 17. The seventh edition of the marquee event will commence from October 17 but the main round will start from October 23. India and Pakistan are placed in the same group, i.e. Pool 2, and will lock horns with each other on October 24 at the iconic Dubai International Cricket Stadium. As the blockbuster clash nears, the tickets have been sold out already. As per a report in PakPassion.net, the tickets were bought soon after they became available on the website. For the unversed, the ticket price of the Indo-Pak tie is already double of a regular match ticket, however, the insane craze led to them being sold out instantly. ALSO READ | Don't spare them, Babar Azam: Shoaib Akhtar issues warning to New Zealand for T20 World Cup face-off after cancelling Pakistan tour India and Pakistan have met each other in every T20 World Cup edition, barring the 2009 and 2010 editions, in England and West Indies respectively. So far, the Men in Blue have managed to beat their arch-rivals on every occasion in the T20 WC history. Leading the Men in Green 5-0, Virat Kohli-led India will start as overwhelming favourites, however, Babar Azam-led Pakistan cannot be taken lightly as they occupy the third position in ICC T20 rankings. ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | MS Dhoni's inclusion as mentor is huge boost to Virat Kohli and finishers in T20 World Cup squad: Manoj Tiwary India and Pakistan's group also comprises New Zealand and Afghanistan whereas two other sides will join them from the qualifiers. On the other hand, Pool A comprises Australia, England, West Indies and South Africa while two more teams will also join them from the qualifying round.

HOUSEFULL! Tickets sold out for India-Pakistan T20 World Cup tie as marquee clash nears

Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry recently claimed that PTV suffered massively in the aftermath of New Zealand's abandonment of Pakistan tour, minutes before the tour-opener.&nbsp;

Now, reports have started circulating that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly spent nearly Rs 3 million in food bills for the officers, who were in charge of security during the series, in just eight days.&nbsp;

Anandabazar Patrika reported that PCB have received a biryani bill of Rs 2.8 million for security officials hired for New Zealand team before the tour got abandoned. The reports further added that each security personnel was served biriyani twice a day.&nbsp;

The report also revealed that there were more than 500 policemen, including five SPs and SSPs, guarding the cricketers. Some reports have claimed that that the amount on the bill was Rs 2.7 million, however, the truth behind it remains uncertain as the officials have not addressed the issue.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/threat-came-from-india-pakistans-information-minister-blames-india-after-new-zealand-abandoned-cricket-tour-414906">'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour</a>

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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have received a biryani bill of ₹27 lakh for security officials hired for New Zealand team before the tour got abandoned, as per reports. 
 
Iska bhi hisab rakhte hai 🤣 <a href="https://t.co/fxCsXFNe3L">pic.twitter.com/fxCsXFNe3L</a>
— Tushar Kant Naik 🇮🇳ॐ♫₹ (@Tushar_KN) <a href="https://twitter.com/Tushar_KN/status/1440711430047551499?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan Cricket has paid the Biryani bill of around 3 million of security guards deployed for the New Zealand Team <a href="https://t.co/Ml2NeDvu53">pic.twitter.com/Ml2NeDvu53</a>
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Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have received a biryani bill of ₹27 lakh for security officials hired for New Zealand team before the tour got abandoned, as per reports. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanCricket?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanZindabad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanZindabad</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ImranKhan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ImranKhan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PakistanCricketBoard?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PakistanCricketBoard</a>
— ISH- Indian Sight Hub 🇮🇳 (@indiansighthub) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiansighthub/status/1440742028623577089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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New Zealand abandoned the series citing a government "security alert" on the day when the first match of the three-match ODIs in Rawalpindi was due to start. The tour was then supposed to moved to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

New Zealand's cricket squad arrived home on Wednesday (September 22). The cricket board had said that they were aware of a "specific and credible" threat but did not give details.&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years.&nbsp;

New Zealand's withdrawal dealt a massive blow to Pakistan's hopes of staging regular international cricket, with England subsequently calling off their men's and women's tours.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry recently claimed that PTV suffered massively in the aftermath of New Zealand's abandonment of Pakistan tour, minutes before the tour-opener.

Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry recently claimed that PTV suffered massively in the aftermath of New Zealand's abandonment of Pakistan tour, minutes before the tour-opener. Now, reports have started circulating that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reportedly spent nearly Rs 3 million in food bills for the officers, who were in charge of security during the series, in just eight days. Anandabazar Patrika reported that PCB have received a biryani bill of Rs 2.8 million for security officials hired for New Zealand team before the tour got abandoned. The reports further added that each security personnel was served biriyani twice a day. The report also revealed that there were more than 500 policemen, including five SPs and SSPs, guarding the cricketers. Some reports have claimed that that the amount on the bill was Rs 2.7 million, however, the truth behind it remains uncertain as the officials have not addressed the issue. ALSO READ | 'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have received a biryani bill of ₹27 lakh for security officials hired for New Zealand team before the tour got abandoned, as per reports. Iska bhi hisab rakhte hai 🤣 pic.twitter.com/fxCsXFNe3L — Tushar Kant Naik 🇮🇳ॐ♫₹ (@Tushar_KN) September 22, 2021 × Did you know? Pakistan Cricket has paid the Biryani bill of around 3 million of security guards deployed for the New Zealand Team pic.twitter.com/Ml2NeDvu53 — BleedGreen.pk (@bleedgreenarmy) September 22, 2021 × Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have received a biryani bill of ₹27 lakh for security officials hired for New Zealand team before the tour got abandoned, as per reports. #PakistanCricket #PakistanZindabad #Pakistan #ImranKhan #PakistanCricketBoard — ISH- Indian Sight Hub 🇮🇳 (@indiansighthub) September 22, 2021 × New Zealand abandoned the series citing a government "security alert" on the day when the first match of the three-match ODIs in Rawalpindi was due to start. The tour was then supposed to moved to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. New Zealand's cricket squad arrived home on Wednesday (September 22). The cricket board had said that they were aware of a "specific and credible" threat but did not give details. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years. New Zealand's withdrawal dealt a massive blow to Pakistan's hopes of staging regular international cricket, with England subsequently calling off their men's and women's tours.

Pakistan security personnel deployed for New Zealand consumed biryani worth Rs 2.8 million: Reports

Pakistan cricket has been in shambles ever since New Zealand cricket team (NZC) decided to postpone their tour of the Asian country, minutes before the tour-opener was set to take place on September 17. NZC withdrew from their historic Pakistan tour on security grounds,&nbsp;pushing Pakistan to the corner just when it had started to host international games at regular intervals.

Following NZC, the England Cricket Board (ECB) also withdrew their Pakistan tour; adding to the Asian country's woes. The New Zealand and England home series were planned as a dress rehearsal for Babar Azam-led Men in Green ahead of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE. However with both sides backing out, it has pushed Pakistan cricket to a corner.

Ahead of the marquee ICC event, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan -- as per a report filed by PakistanCricket -- has motivated Babar &amp; Co. to perform like 'cornered tigers' in the upcoming edition of the T20 WC.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-t20-world-cup-anthem-released-by-icc-as-excitement-builds-up-for-marquee-event-415256">Watch: T20 World Cup anthem released by ICC as excitement builds up for marquee event</a>

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Pakistan cricket team arrived at pm house to meet with pm ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a>⁩ ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheRealPCB</a>⁩ <a href="https://t.co/yYZdYFFlmY">pic.twitter.com/yYZdYFFlmY</a>
— Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai (@ayazakbar786) <a href="https://twitter.com/ayazakbar786/status/1440630765901942784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Pakistan is a safe country. You should focus on improving your performances... God willing, Pakistan will host international cricket soon," Khan was quoted as saying. Imran, who guided Pakistan to its maiden World Cup title in 1992, also told Babar to lead the Green Army from the front. "You must lead the team from the front, take everyone along and play like cornered tigers," Imran said. Azam-led Pakistan will kickstart their World Cup campaign against arch-rivals India. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-chairman-ramiz-raja-slams-england-after-they-cancel-pakistan-tour-following-new-zealand-watch-414694">PCB chairman Ramiz Raja slams England after they cancel Pakistan tour following New Zealand - Watch</a>

For the unversed, Babar-led Pakistan are placed in Pool 2, along with India, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two other teams from the qualifying round in the T20 WC. The mega event will kick off from October 17 whereas the main draw will start from October 23.

Pakistan cricket has been in shambles ever since New Zealand cricket team (NZC) decided to postpone their tour of the Asian country, minutes before the tour-opener was set to take place on September 17.

Pakistan cricket has been in shambles ever since New Zealand cricket team (NZC) decided to postpone their tour of the Asian country, minutes before the tour-opener was set to take place on September 17. NZC withdrew from their historic Pakistan tour on security grounds, pushing Pakistan to the corner just when it had started to host international games at regular intervals. Following NZC, the England Cricket Board (ECB) also withdrew their Pakistan tour; adding to the Asian country's woes. The New Zealand and England home series were planned as a dress rehearsal for Babar Azam-led Men in Green ahead of the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE. However with both sides backing out, it has pushed Pakistan cricket to a corner. Ahead of the marquee ICC event, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan -- as per a report filed by PakistanCricket -- has motivated Babar & Co. to perform like 'cornered tigers' in the upcoming edition of the T20 WC. ALSO READ | Watch: T20 World Cup anthem released by ICC as excitement builds up for marquee event Pakistan cricket team arrived at pm house to meet with pm ⁦@ImranKhanPTI⁩ ⁦@TheRealPCB⁩ pic.twitter.com/yYZdYFFlmY — Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai (@ayazakbar786) September 22, 2021 × "Pakistan is a safe country. You should focus on improving your performances... God willing, Pakistan will host international cricket soon," Khan was quoted as saying. Imran, who guided Pakistan to its maiden World Cup title in 1992, also told Babar to lead the Green Army from the front. "You must lead the team from the front, take everyone along and play like cornered tigers," Imran said. Azam-led Pakistan will kickstart their World Cup campaign against arch-rivals India. ALSO READ | PCB chairman Ramiz Raja slams England after they cancel Pakistan tour following New Zealand - Watch For the unversed, Babar-led Pakistan are placed in Pool 2, along with India, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two other teams from the qualifying round in the T20 WC. The mega event will kick off from October 17 whereas the main draw will start from October 23.

'Play like cornered tigers' - PM Imran Khan motivates Babar Azam-led Pakistan for T20 WC after NZ, England cancel tours

Pakistan Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry is claiming that the threat to New Zealand's cricket team, that led to the cancellation of their Pakistan tour on September 17, came in an email that originated in India.&nbsp;

Recently, New Zealand abandoned the series citing a government "security alert" on the day when the first match of the tour was supposed to begin.&nbsp;

New Zealand cricket had, however, did not comment on the details of the security threat and later arranged a charter flight to bring their players home via UAE.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday (September 22), Fawad told reporters, "This email was generated from India through a VPN showing the location of Singapore".&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

The press conference was tweeted by the official handle of the Government of Pakistan, as the minister can be heard giving details about his claims. He said in Urdu which can be loosely translated in English as: "The mobile device from which the threat was launched was launched in India in August 2019 and became active on September 25."

&nbsp;

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وفاقی وزیرِ اطلاعات و نشریات چوہدری فواد حسین کی وفاقی وزیرِ داخلہ شیخ رشید احمد کے ہمراہ اہم پریس کانفرنس۔<a href="https://twitter.com/fawadchaudhry?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fawadchaudhry</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ShkhRasheed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShkhRasheed</a> <a href="https://t.co/OkFo2t7DAK">https://t.co/OkFo2t7DAK</a>
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) <a href="https://twitter.com/GovtofPakistan/status/1440595168785158148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-pakistans-image-takes-a-nosedive-whats-next-for-the-cricket-crazy-nation-under-pm-imran-khan-414029">As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan?</a>

He added, "Through which a man named Om Prakash Mishra created a fake e-mail ID named Hamza Afridi from Mumbai and threatened to locate Singapore through VPN."

"Timing and text of the threat email suggest that the threat was not the reason for cancellation of the tour, but was issued after the cancellation to malign Pakistan and substantiate the security concerns of New Zealand and other touring countries," he said.&nbsp;

Chaudhry further claimed that the West Indies team, due to arrive in December, had also been sent a threat that he said was fake.&nbsp;

<img alt="Fawad Chaudhry " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="731d6dfb-0ea0-432d-9f2b-bc92ecf904a5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Fawad%20Chaudhry.PNG" />

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, who is Pakistan's interior minister had also&nbsp;commented on the cancellation of Pakistan vs New Zealand cricket series as he said that security forces had received "no reports" of a threat against the NZ team.&nbsp;

Ahmad told&nbsp;reporters: "This is their prerogative. Our security forces - our police, our armed forces, our SSG (Special Service Group) - none of these organizations had any reports of a threat. Nor was any threat received."&nbsp;

"The security situation in our country is excellent. We can give a guarantee that there is no security issue here, no security threat. However, the New Zealand prime minister said, 'although there is no issue of a threat, but we have information that when the team goes outside, there can be an attack on it.' They have therefore cancelled their tour unilaterally," he said.&nbsp;

"At a time when Pakistan is playing a vital role towards peace and security in the world; when Pakistan has very strong, reliable and robust forces to deal with terrorism, this is a planned conspiracy by some 'gloved hand' to end this tour," Ahmad further added.&nbsp;

The Kiwis were due to play Pakistan on Friday (September 17) in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years.&nbsp;

New Zealand's withdrawal dealt a massive blow to Pakistan's hopes of staging regular international cricket, with England subsequently calling off their men's and women's tours.&nbsp;

Pakistan Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry is claiming that the threat to New Zealand's cricket team, that led to the cancellation of their Pakistan tour on September 17, came in an email that originated in India.

Pakistan Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry is claiming that the threat to New Zealand's cricket team, that led to the cancellation of their Pakistan tour on September 17, came in an email that originated in India. Recently, New Zealand abandoned the series citing a government "security alert" on the day when the first match of the tour was supposed to begin. New Zealand cricket had, however, did not comment on the details of the security threat and later arranged a charter flight to bring their players home via UAE. Addressing a press conference on Wednesday (September 22), Fawad told reporters, "This email was generated from India through a VPN showing the location of Singapore". ALSO READ | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds The press conference was tweeted by the official handle of the Government of Pakistan, as the minister can be heard giving details about his claims. He said in Urdu which can be loosely translated in English as: "The mobile device from which the threat was launched was launched in India in August 2019 and became active on September 25." وفاقی وزیرِ اطلاعات و نشریات چوہدری فواد حسین کی وفاقی وزیرِ داخلہ شیخ رشید احمد کے ہمراہ اہم پریس کانفرنس۔@fawadchaudhry @ShkhRasheed https://t.co/OkFo2t7DAK — Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) September 22, 2021 × ALSO READ | As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan? He added, "Through which a man named Om Prakash Mishra created a fake e-mail ID named Hamza Afridi from Mumbai and threatened to locate Singapore through VPN." "Timing and text of the threat email suggest that the threat was not the reason for cancellation of the tour, but was issued after the cancellation to malign Pakistan and substantiate the security concerns of New Zealand and other touring countries," he said. Chaudhry further claimed that the West Indies team, due to arrive in December, had also been sent a threat that he said was fake. Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, who is Pakistan's interior minister had also commented on the cancellation of Pakistan vs New Zealand cricket series as he said that security forces had received "no reports" of a threat against the NZ team. Ahmad told reporters: "This is their prerogative. Our security forces - our police, our armed forces, our SSG (Special Service Group) - none of these organizations had any reports of a threat. Nor was any threat received." "The security situation in our country is excellent. We can give a guarantee that there is no security issue here, no security threat. However, the New Zealand prime minister said, 'although there is no issue of a threat, but we have information that when the team goes outside, there can be an attack on it.' They have therefore cancelled their tour unilaterally," he said. "At a time when Pakistan is playing a vital role towards peace and security in the world; when Pakistan has very strong, reliable and robust forces to deal with terrorism, this is a planned conspiracy by some 'gloved hand' to end this tour," Ahmad further added. The Kiwis were due to play Pakistan on Friday (September 17) in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years. New Zealand's withdrawal dealt a massive blow to Pakistan's hopes of staging regular international cricket, with England subsequently calling off their men's and women's tours.

'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour

New Zealand cricket team have returned back home after cancelling their historic tour of Pakistan, just minutes ahead of the tour-opener at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on Friday (September 17). The Tom Latham-led side cancelled the tour on security grounds, ahead of the series opener of the three ODIs,&nbsp;and have now returned home.

The Black Caps' official Twitter handle shared the video of the team's return and captioned the post, "The 24 strong BLACKCAPS touring squad have arrived home into Auckland from Dubai and will shortly begin the mandatory 14 days in MIQ."

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The 24 strong BLACKCAPS touring squad have arrived home into Auckland from Dubai and will shortly begin the mandatory 14 days in MIQ. <a href="https://t.co/VVa86O698g">pic.twitter.com/VVa86O698g</a>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1440469071875612674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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For the unversed, New Zealand were set to play three ODIs and five T20Is in Pakistan, as part of the preparation process for the upcoming T20 World Cup. This was going to be New Zealand's first-ever visit to the Asian country after December 2003. Since then, the Black Caps haven't toured the Men in Green despite the latter hosting a plethora of international teams in the recent past.&nbsp;

Recently, NZ's stand-in captain Tom Latham lavished praise on the Pakistan security and authorities till the time the Kiwis were in the subcontinent.&nbsp;

“It’s naturally very disappointing for them [Pakistan and their fans]. It was something they were very proud of. I remember doing the captain’s round with Babar [Azam] the day before and just seeing how happy he was to have international cricket and have us there. He was very excited and it was a historic moment for New Zealand Cricket to be back there 18 years since they were last there.”

“To be part of that was going to be something special, but obviously things changed. NZC acted swiftly along with the people on the ground in Pakistan. While we were there after the decision, the Pakistan authorities were brilliant. They kept us safe at the hotel and we certainly need to thank them,” Tom Latham told NZ's in-house media channel according to ESPNcricinfo.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/threat-came-from-india-pakistans-information-minister-blames-india-after-new-zealand-abandoned-cricket-tour-414906">'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour</a>

However, NZ's withdrawal has left Pakistan cricket in shambles. They were getting regular in hosting international games on home soil, after the 2009 Lahore terror attack, but the recent pullout from the Black Caps have put them in a spot of bother.

New Zealand cricket team have returned back home after cancelling their historic tour of Pakistan, just minutes ahead of the tour-opener at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on Friday (September 17).

New Zealand cricket team have returned back home after cancelling their historic tour of Pakistan, just minutes ahead of the tour-opener at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on Friday (September 17). The Tom Latham-led side cancelled the tour on security grounds, ahead of the series opener of the three ODIs, and have now returned home. The Black Caps' official Twitter handle shared the video of the team's return and captioned the post, "The 24 strong BLACKCAPS touring squad have arrived home into Auckland from Dubai and will shortly begin the mandatory 14 days in MIQ." The 24 strong BLACKCAPS touring squad have arrived home into Auckland from Dubai and will shortly begin the mandatory 14 days in MIQ. pic.twitter.com/VVa86O698g — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 22, 2021 × For the unversed, New Zealand were set to play three ODIs and five T20Is in Pakistan, as part of the preparation process for the upcoming T20 World Cup. This was going to be New Zealand's first-ever visit to the Asian country after December 2003. Since then, the Black Caps haven't toured the Men in Green despite the latter hosting a plethora of international teams in the recent past. Recently, NZ's stand-in captain Tom Latham lavished praise on the Pakistan security and authorities till the time the Kiwis were in the subcontinent. “It’s naturally very disappointing for them [Pakistan and their fans]. It was something they were very proud of. I remember doing the captain’s round with Babar [Azam] the day before and just seeing how happy he was to have international cricket and have us there. He was very excited and it was a historic moment for New Zealand Cricket to be back there 18 years since they were last there.” “To be part of that was going to be something special, but obviously things changed. NZC acted swiftly along with the people on the ground in Pakistan. While we were there after the decision, the Pakistan authorities were brilliant. They kept us safe at the hotel and we certainly need to thank them,” Tom Latham told NZ's in-house media channel according to ESPNcricinfo. ALSO READ | 'Threat came from India': Pakistan's information minister blames India after New Zealand abandoned cricket tour However, NZ's withdrawal has left Pakistan cricket in shambles. They were getting regular in hosting international games on home soil, after the 2009 Lahore terror attack, but the recent pullout from the Black Caps have put them in a spot of bother.

New Zealand players return back home after withdrawing from historic Pakistan tour in controversial manner - Watch

The New Zealand cricket team withdrew from their tour of Pakistan just minutes before the tour-opener was to get underway, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, on Friday (September 17). Since then, there has been a huge uproar in the cricketing fraternity, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) being livid as they are on the verge of suffering financially with Black Caps, also followed by England, deciding to pull out of the tour due to security grounds.&nbsp;

Now, Pakistan's former speedster Shoaib Akhtar, also known as the Rawalpindi Express, has shared his thoughts on NZ's tour cancellation and has issues a stern warning to the Black Caps ahead of Babar Azam-led Men in Green's face-off versus the Kiwis in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

"So England also refuses. Its ok guys, see you all at the T20 World Cup. &nbsp;Specially @BLACKCAPS. Ab painja laganay ka time aa gaya hai. Chorna nahi hai ab @babarazam," Akhtar tweeted. Here's the video where Akhtar has a message for Babar &amp; Co. to take a fitting revenge from the Kiwis.

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So England also refuses. 
Its ok guys, see you all at the T20 World Cup. Specially <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a>. 
Ab painja laganay ka time aa gaya hai. Chorna nahi hai ab <a href="https://twitter.com/Babarazam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@babarazam</a> . 
 
Full video: <a href="https://t.co/zUwpaHDvzb">https://t.co/zUwpaHDvzb</a> <a href="https://t.co/PxMb1Bt5bb">pic.twitter.com/PxMb1Bt5bb</a>
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1440020570175852545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-an-unfortunate-scenario-ramiz-raja-urges-pakistan-cricketers-to-channelise-anger-into-performance-414035">'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance</a>

For the unversed, both Pakistan and New Zealand are in the same group (Pool 2). While the group's most-promising match was supposed to be India-Pakistan's face-off, the encounter between Black Caps and the Men in Green will also be a fiery affair given how things folded up with the New Zealand-Pakistan series, in the Asian country.

The New Zealand cricket team withdrew from their tour of Pakistan just minutes before the tour-opener was to get underway, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, on Friday (September 17).

The New Zealand cricket team withdrew from their tour of Pakistan just minutes before the tour-opener was to get underway, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, on Friday (September 17). Since then, there has been a huge uproar in the cricketing fraternity, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) being livid as they are on the verge of suffering financially with Black Caps, also followed by England, deciding to pull out of the tour due to security grounds. Now, Pakistan's former speedster Shoaib Akhtar, also known as the Rawalpindi Express, has shared his thoughts on NZ's tour cancellation and has issues a stern warning to the Black Caps ahead of Babar Azam-led Men in Green's face-off versus the Kiwis in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, in the UAE. "So England also refuses. Its ok guys, see you all at the T20 World Cup. Specially @BLACKCAPS. Ab painja laganay ka time aa gaya hai. Chorna nahi hai ab @babarazam," Akhtar tweeted. Here's the video where Akhtar has a message for Babar & Co. to take a fitting revenge from the Kiwis. So England also refuses. Its ok guys, see you all at the T20 World Cup. Specially @BLACKCAPS. Ab painja laganay ka time aa gaya hai. Chorna nahi hai ab @babarazam . Full video: https://t.co/zUwpaHDvzb pic.twitter.com/PxMb1Bt5bb — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) September 20, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance For the unversed, both Pakistan and New Zealand are in the same group (Pool 2). While the group's most-promising match was supposed to be India-Pakistan's face-off, the encounter between Black Caps and the Men in Green will also be a fiery affair given how things folded up with the New Zealand-Pakistan series, in the Asian country.

Don't spare them, Babar Azam: Shoaib Akhtar issues warning to New Zealand for T20 World Cup face-off after cancelling Pakistan tour

New Zealand's last-minute withdrawal from the tour of Pakistan caused a devastating&nbsp;blow to the South Asian nation's hopes of staging regular international cricket tournaments at home, which were suspended in the aftermath of a 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan side that wounded at&nbsp;least six players.&nbsp;

Pakistan's image has taken a nosedive as the abrupt withdrawal is deemed as another era of isolation for Pakistan and a global humiliation, which is quite shocking to witness as the nation is governed by a former cricketing legend Imran Khan. Despite Khan being the Prime Minister of the country, the status of cricket hasn't seen the expected boost.&nbsp;

Now, the New Zealand decision to abandon the tour has posed another mammoth task for Khan and the Pakistan Cricket Board to convince countries for future tours and avoid another period of embarrassing exile.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

On September 17, the grass, the pitch, the atmosphere at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium looked positive from Pakistan's perspective but the narratives changed within minutes as the Kiwis refused to travel to the stadium.&nbsp;

When the toss got delayed, rumours started floating on the social media forums that some players in NZ camp have been tested COVID-19 positive, however, New&nbsp;Zealand Cricket informed that they are abandoning the tour, citing a security alert. The two cricketing giants were to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

In the absence of some frontline players, New Zealand travelled to Pakistan for the first time in 18 years. The Pakistan Cricket Board mentioned that Govt of Pakistan made foolproof security arrangements for all visiting teams and were guarded by a heavy paramilitary and police contingent.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-planned-conspiracy-pakistans-interior-minister-reacts-after-new-zealand-abandon-cricket-tour-413923">'A planned conspiracy': Pakistan's interior minister reacts after New Zealand abandon cricket tour</a>

Pakistani cricketers are angry as ex-cricketer Shoaib Akhtar wrote that New Zealand has "killed Pakistan cricket". PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was also frustrated as he said that in "which world" is NZ living in and they will hear Pakistan at ICC.&nbsp;

Skipper Babar Azam said that he is "extremely disappointed" with the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the "smiles back" for millions of Pakistan cricket fans.&nbsp;

Now, Raja in a video posted on the board's Twitter handle said that "it's an unfortunate scenario". "But we've faced similar situations in the past and have always overcome them. We've tremendous resilience... it's a setback to staging international cricket in Pakistan but we'll overcome this crisis too," he added.&nbsp;Pakistan have only hosted South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe since the 2009 attacks. &nbsp;

What will happen next as England are already reconsidering their limited-overs trip,&nbsp;while the status of&nbsp; Australia, who are scheduled to visit in February-March next year, remains unclear. A&nbsp;Cricket Australia spokesperson said the organisation was monitoring the situation and would "talk with the relevant authorities once more information becomes known".

The question here arises that what's next for the cricket-crazy nation, especially under PM Imran Khan who might understand the feeling of millions of fans.&nbsp;

New Zealand's last-minute withdrawal from the tour of Pakistan caused a devastating blow to the South Asian nation's hopes of staging regular international cricket tournaments at home, which were suspended in the aftermath of a 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan side that wounded at least six players.

New Zealand's last-minute withdrawal from the tour of Pakistan caused a devastating blow to the South Asian nation's hopes of staging regular international cricket tournaments at home, which were suspended in the aftermath of a 2009 terror attack on the Sri Lankan side that wounded at least six players. Pakistan's image has taken a nosedive as the abrupt withdrawal is deemed as another era of isolation for Pakistan and a global humiliation, which is quite shocking to witness as the nation is governed by a former cricketing legend Imran Khan. Despite Khan being the Prime Minister of the country, the status of cricket hasn't seen the expected boost. Now, the New Zealand decision to abandon the tour has posed another mammoth task for Khan and the Pakistan Cricket Board to convince countries for future tours and avoid another period of embarrassing exile. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds On September 17, the grass, the pitch, the atmosphere at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium looked positive from Pakistan's perspective but the narratives changed within minutes as the Kiwis refused to travel to the stadium. When the toss got delayed, rumours started floating on the social media forums that some players in NZ camp have been tested COVID-19 positive, however, New Zealand Cricket informed that they are abandoning the tour, citing a security alert. The two cricketing giants were to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. In the absence of some frontline players, New Zealand travelled to Pakistan for the first time in 18 years. The Pakistan Cricket Board mentioned that Govt of Pakistan made foolproof security arrangements for all visiting teams and were guarded by a heavy paramilitary and police contingent. ALSO READ | 'A planned conspiracy': Pakistan's interior minister reacts after New Zealand abandon cricket tour Pakistani cricketers are angry as ex-cricketer Shoaib Akhtar wrote that New Zealand has "killed Pakistan cricket". PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was also frustrated as he said that in "which world" is NZ living in and they will hear Pakistan at ICC. Skipper Babar Azam said that he is "extremely disappointed" with the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the "smiles back" for millions of Pakistan cricket fans. Now, Raja in a video posted on the board's Twitter handle said that "it's an unfortunate scenario". "But we've faced similar situations in the past and have always overcome them. We've tremendous resilience... it's a setback to staging international cricket in Pakistan but we'll overcome this crisis too," he added. Pakistan have only hosted South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe since the 2009 attacks. What will happen next as England are already reconsidering their limited-overs trip, while the status of Australia, who are scheduled to visit in February-March next year, remains unclear. A Cricket Australia spokesperson said the organisation was monitoring the situation and would "talk with the relevant authorities once more information becomes known". The question here arises that what's next for the cricket-crazy nation, especially under PM Imran Khan who might understand the feeling of millions of fans.

As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan?

After New Zealand abandoned the Pakistan tour due to security concerns, West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle's cryptic tweet about travelling to Pakistan has left the fans confused. Gayle, who is currently in UAE preparing for the second leg of the IPL 2021 tournament, tweeted, "I'm going to Pakistan tomorrow, who coming with me?"&nbsp;

The Punjab Kings player's tweet generated a buzz among fans and it got attention when The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) re-tweeted it from their official handle.&nbsp;

Some of the Pakistani players also responded to Gayle's message as seamer Mohammad Amir wrote, "See u there legend." Batsman&nbsp;Mohammad Hafeez wrote, "Welcome @henrygayle U r a true Champion &nbsp;loads of love from Pakistan"

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-blame-the-playersblame-government-mitchell-mcclenaghan-to-mohammed-hafeez-414156">'Don't blame the players...Blame government': Mitchell McClenaghan to Mohammed Hafeez</a>

It can be understood that Chris Gayle's tweet is intended to pacify the situation as he is a cricketer, who is known for seeing the lighter side of things even during difficult times.&nbsp;

Before gayle, even Darren Sammy also voiced his opinion and said he has faced no security concerns during his multiple visits to Pakistan in the last six years.&nbsp;

"Disappointed waking up to the news of the cancellation of the Pakistan Vs New Zealand series because of security issues. 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," Sammy had tweeted.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://t.co/9s6zsakqpT">pic.twitter.com/9s6zsakqpT</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1439486541097803781?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Welcome <a href="https://twitter.com/henrygayle?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@henrygayle</a> ❤️ U r a true Champion 👍🏼 loads of love from Pakistan <a href="https://t.co/Dbe2iUAWEA">https://t.co/Dbe2iUAWEA</a>
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1439305284581687296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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see u there legend 😁😁😁😁
— Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/iamamirofficial/status/1439309562977398788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-an-unfortunate-scenario-ramiz-raja-urges-pakistan-cricketers-to-channelise-anger-into-performance-414035">'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance</a>

Meanwhile, the New Zealand cricket team arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight on September 18 as New Zealand was warned of a "specific, credible threat" against its team.&nbsp;

Some cricketers will fly back home and the rest will remain in the UAE and join New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad, ahead of that tournament commencing on October 17.&nbsp;

Pakistan and New Zealand were supposed to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

After New Zealand abandoned the Pakistan tour due to security concerns, West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle's cryptic tweet about travelling to Pakistan has left the fans confused.

After New Zealand abandoned the Pakistan tour due to security concerns, West Indies cricketer Chris Gayle's cryptic tweet about travelling to Pakistan has left the fans confused. Gayle, who is currently in UAE preparing for the second leg of the IPL 2021 tournament, tweeted, "I'm going to Pakistan tomorrow, who coming with me?" The Punjab Kings player's tweet generated a buzz among fans and it got attention when The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) re-tweeted it from their official handle. Some of the Pakistani players also responded to Gayle's message as seamer Mohammad Amir wrote, "See u there legend." Batsman Mohammad Hafeez wrote, "Welcome @henrygayle U r a true Champion loads of love from Pakistan" ALSO READ | 'Don't blame the players...Blame government': Mitchell McClenaghan to Mohammed Hafeez It can be understood that Chris Gayle's tweet is intended to pacify the situation as he is a cricketer, who is known for seeing the lighter side of things even during difficult times. Before gayle, even Darren Sammy also voiced his opinion and said he has faced no security concerns during his multiple visits to Pakistan in the last six years. "Disappointed waking up to the news of the cancellation of the Pakistan Vs New Zealand series because of security issues. 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," Sammy had tweeted. pic.twitter.com/9s6zsakqpT — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 19, 2021 × Welcome @henrygayle ❤️ U r a true Champion 👍🏼 loads of love from Pakistan https://t.co/Dbe2iUAWEA — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 18, 2021 × see u there legend 😁😁😁😁 — Mohammad Amir (@iamamirofficial) September 18, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance Meanwhile, the New Zealand cricket team arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight on September 18 as New Zealand was warned of a "specific, credible threat" against its team. Some cricketers will fly back home and the rest will remain in the UAE and join New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad, ahead of that tournament commencing on October 17. Pakistan and New Zealand were supposed to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.

Chris Gayle says he is 'going to Pakistan', Mohammad Hafeez and Mohammad Amir respond

Mitchell McClenaghan responded to the Pakistan batsman Mohammad Hafeez's taunt for the New Zealand players after the tour was abandoned. The 35-year-old Kiwi pacer asked Hafeez to not blame the players as they "acted on the advice" they received.&nbsp;

After the tour got cancelled, Pakistani cricketers expressed their frustration and disappointment, among them was Mohammad Hafeez. He posted an image of the NZ cricketers, who were at the airport and wrote, "Thanks to the secutity of pakistan forces to make arrangements to @BLACKCAPS to reach at airport Safe &amp; Sound. Wonder same route &amp; same security but no threat today???"&nbsp;

In a now-deleted tweet, McClenaghan wrote, "Come now bro. This has a bad taste to it... Don't blame the players or the organisation... blame our government. They have only acted on the advice they have received. I'm absolutely certain these young men - all wanting to prove themselves wanted to play. they had no choice."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-an-unfortunate-scenario-ramiz-raja-urges-pakistan-cricketers-to-channelise-anger-into-performance-414035">'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance</a>

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Thanks to the secutity of pakistan forces to make arrangements to <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BLACKCAPS</a> to reach at airport Safe &amp; Sound. Wonder same route &amp; same security but no threat today??? <a href="https://t.co/mwxq6AFjyT">pic.twitter.com/mwxq6AFjyT</a>
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1439226198194745344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<img alt="Mitchell McClenaghan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f34f1087-3b08-4127-bef1-d0ecca831871" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mitchell%20McClenaghan.PNG" />

The New Zealand cricket team arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight on September 18 as New Zealand was warned of a "specific, credible threat" against its team.&nbsp;

The official New Zealand cricket website has informed that the contingent of 34 players and support staff are in Dubai and undergoing their 24-hour period of self-isolation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-pakistans-image-takes-a-nosedive-whats-next-for-the-cricket-crazy-nation-under-pm-imran-khan-414029">As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan?</a>

Some cricketers will fly back home and the rest will remain in the UAE and join New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad, ahead of that tournament commencing on October 17.&nbsp;

Pakistan and New Zealand were supposed to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

Mitchell McClenaghan responded to the Pakistan batsman Mohammad Hafeez's taunt for the New Zealand players after the tour was abandoned. The 35-year-old Kiwi pacer asked Hafeez to not blame the players as they "acted on the advice" they received.

Mitchell McClenaghan responded to the Pakistan batsman Mohammad Hafeez's taunt for the New Zealand players after the tour was abandoned. The 35-year-old Kiwi pacer asked Hafeez to not blame the players as they "acted on the advice" they received. After the tour got cancelled, Pakistani cricketers expressed their frustration and disappointment, among them was Mohammad Hafeez. He posted an image of the NZ cricketers, who were at the airport and wrote, "Thanks to the secutity of pakistan forces to make arrangements to @BLACKCAPS to reach at airport Safe & Sound. Wonder same route & same security but no threat today???" In a now-deleted tweet, McClenaghan wrote, "Come now bro. This has a bad taste to it... Don't blame the players or the organisation... blame our government. They have only acted on the advice they have received. I'm absolutely certain these young men - all wanting to prove themselves wanted to play. they had no choice." ALSO READ | 'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance Thanks to the secutity of pakistan forces to make arrangements to @BLACKCAPS to reach at airport Safe & Sound. Wonder same route & same security but no threat today??? pic.twitter.com/mwxq6AFjyT — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 18, 2021 × The New Zealand cricket team arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight on September 18 as New Zealand was warned of a "specific, credible threat" against its team. The official New Zealand cricket website has informed that the contingent of 34 players and support staff are in Dubai and undergoing their 24-hour period of self-isolation. ALSO READ | As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan? Some cricketers will fly back home and the rest will remain in the UAE and join New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad, ahead of that tournament commencing on October 17. Pakistan and New Zealand were supposed to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.

'Don't blame the players...Blame government': Mitchell McClenaghan to Mohammed Hafeez

After abandoning the Pakistan tour, the New Zealand cricket team arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight on September 18 as New Zealand was warned of a "specific, credible threat" against its team.&nbsp;

Pakistan and New Zealand were supposed to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

New Zealand had abandoned the limited-overs tour on the day it was supposed to begin in Rawalpindi citing a&nbsp;government security alert.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-an-unfortunate-scenario-ramiz-raja-urges-pakistan-cricketers-to-channelise-anger-into-performance-414035">'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance</a>

Now, the official New Zealand cricket website has informed that the contingent of 34 players and support staff are in Dubai and undergoing their 24-hour period of self-isolation.&nbsp;

Some cricketers will fly back home and the rest will remain in the UAE and join New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad, ahead of that tournament commencing on October 17.&nbsp;

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The BLACKCAPS have arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight last night (New Zealand time). 
 
The players and support staff are now settling into their Dubai hotel and undergoing a 24-hour self-isolation. 
 
More information ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/ksZBWLGLrT">https://t.co/ksZBWLGLrT</a> <a href="https://t.co/UBrwwiSQiR">pic.twitter.com/UBrwwiSQiR</a>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1439352019337334793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-pakistans-image-takes-a-nosedive-whats-next-for-the-cricket-crazy-nation-under-pm-imran-khan-414029">As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan?</a>

New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for organising a safe departure of the New Zealand team.&nbsp;

He said, "We appreciate this has been a terribly difficult time for the PCB and wish to pass on our sincere thanks to chief executive Wasim Khan and his team for their professionalism and care. What I can say is that we were advised this was a specific and credible threat against the team."

"Everything changed on Friday. The advice changed, the threat level changed and, as a consequence, we took the only responsible course of action possible. Unfortunately, given the advice we'd received, there was no way we could stay in the country," White added.&nbsp;

Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan following an attack by Islamist militants on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

However, the South Asian country has been putting efforts to stage international tournaments at home. Pakistan have only hosted South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe since the 2009 attacks.&nbsp;

Even Prime Minister Imran Khan's telephone discussion with New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern could not save the tour and prevent a major blow to Pakistan's hopes of hosting top international teams.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Ardern said NZC "made the right decision" to pull out of the tour. "You will understand why we are not in a position to give further information as to the nature of the intelligence, other than to say, it was a direct threat, and it was a credible threat," she told reporters on Sunday.&nbsp;

In the aftermath, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja called New Zealand's decision of cancelling the tour "an unfortunate scenario" but was also confident that Pakistan know how to overcome such crises. He also suggested the Pakistan team to channelise "frustration and anger" towards their performance ahead of the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After abandoning the Pakistan tour, the New Zealand cricket team arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight on September 18 as New Zealand was warned of a "specific, credible threat" against its team.

After abandoning the Pakistan tour, the New Zealand cricket team arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight on September 18 as New Zealand was warned of a "specific, credible threat" against its team. Pakistan and New Zealand were supposed to play on September 17 first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. New Zealand had abandoned the limited-overs tour on the day it was supposed to begin in Rawalpindi citing a government security alert. ALSO READ | 'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance Now, the official New Zealand cricket website has informed that the contingent of 34 players and support staff are in Dubai and undergoing their 24-hour period of self-isolation. Some cricketers will fly back home and the rest will remain in the UAE and join New Zealand's T20 World Cup squad, ahead of that tournament commencing on October 17. The BLACKCAPS have arrived in Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight last night (New Zealand time). The players and support staff are now settling into their Dubai hotel and undergoing a 24-hour self-isolation. More information ⬇️https://t.co/ksZBWLGLrT pic.twitter.com/UBrwwiSQiR — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 18, 2021 × ALSO READ | As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan? New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White thanked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for organising a safe departure of the New Zealand team. He said, "We appreciate this has been a terribly difficult time for the PCB and wish to pass on our sincere thanks to chief executive Wasim Khan and his team for their professionalism and care. What I can say is that we were advised this was a specific and credible threat against the team." "Everything changed on Friday. The advice changed, the threat level changed and, as a consequence, we took the only responsible course of action possible. Unfortunately, given the advice we'd received, there was no way we could stay in the country," White added. Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan following an attack by Islamist militants on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds However, the South Asian country has been putting efforts to stage international tournaments at home. Pakistan have only hosted South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Zimbabwe since the 2009 attacks. Even Prime Minister Imran Khan's telephone discussion with New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern could not save the tour and prevent a major blow to Pakistan's hopes of hosting top international teams. Prime Minister Ardern said NZC "made the right decision" to pull out of the tour. "You will understand why we are not in a position to give further information as to the nature of the intelligence, other than to say, it was a direct threat, and it was a credible threat," she told reporters on Sunday. In the aftermath, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja called New Zealand's decision of cancelling the tour "an unfortunate scenario" but was also confident that Pakistan know how to overcome such crises. He also suggested the Pakistan team to channelise "frustration and anger" towards their performance ahead of the T20 World Cup. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand players reach Dubai after leaving Islamabad on a charter flight

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, who is Pakistan's interior minister, commented on the cancellation of Pakistan vs New Zealand cricket series as he said that security forces had received "no reports" of a threat against the NZ team that travelled to the South Asian nation.&nbsp;

After the series was cancelled, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad spoke to reporters in Urdu, which can be loosely translated in English as: "This is their prerogative. Our security forces - our police, our armed forces, our SSG (Special Service Group) - none of these organizations had any reports of a threat. Nor was any threat received."&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-over-security-concerns-heres-what-we-know-so-far-413887">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns: Here's what we know so far</a>

"The security situation in our country is excellent. We can give a guarantee that there is no security issue here, no security threat. However, the New Zealand prime minister said, 'although there is no issue of a threat, but we have information that when the team goes outside, there can be an attack on it.' They have therefore cancelled their tour unilaterally," he said.&nbsp;

"At a time when Pakistan is playing a vital role towards peace and security in the world; when Pakistan has very strong, reliable and robust forces to deal with terrorism, this is a planned conspiracy by some 'gloved hand' to end this tour," Ahmad further added.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

New Zealand abandoned the series citing a government "security alert" on the day when the first match of the tour was supposed to begin. The Kiwis were due to play Pakistan on Friday (September 17) in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

It is important to note here that international cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years.&nbsp;

However, following an escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, officials decided to cancel the tour and mentioned that arrangements were being made for the team's departure.&nbsp;

New Zealand cricket did not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-security-forces-and-bomb-disposal-squad-monitor-stadium-after-new-zealand-abandon-tour-413811">Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour</a>

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The Black Caps have abandoned the tour of Pakistan following a security alert from the New Zealand government. 
 
Details 👇<a href="https://t.co/GMVT3zm18y">https://t.co/GMVT3zm18y</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1438805504462053379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Weighing in on the security measures, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams."

"We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team."

"The security officials with the NZ team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Govt of Pakistan throughout their stay here."

"PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," the statement concluded.&nbsp;

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, who is Pakistan's interior minister, commented on the cancellation of Pakistan vs New Zealand cricket series as he said that security forces had received "no reports" of a threat against the NZ team that travelled to the South Asian nation.

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, who is Pakistan's interior minister, commented on the cancellation of Pakistan vs New Zealand cricket series as he said that security forces had received "no reports" of a threat against the NZ team that travelled to the South Asian nation. After the series was cancelled, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad spoke to reporters in Urdu, which can be loosely translated in English as: "This is their prerogative. Our security forces - our police, our armed forces, our SSG (Special Service Group) - none of these organizations had any reports of a threat. Nor was any threat received." IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns: Here's what we know so far "The security situation in our country is excellent. We can give a guarantee that there is no security issue here, no security threat. However, the New Zealand prime minister said, 'although there is no issue of a threat, but we have information that when the team goes outside, there can be an attack on it.' They have therefore cancelled their tour unilaterally," he said. "At a time when Pakistan is playing a vital role towards peace and security in the world; when Pakistan has very strong, reliable and robust forces to deal with terrorism, this is a planned conspiracy by some 'gloved hand' to end this tour," Ahmad further added. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds New Zealand abandoned the series citing a government "security alert" on the day when the first match of the tour was supposed to begin. The Kiwis were due to play Pakistan on Friday (September 17) in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. It is important to note here that international cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years. However, following an escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, officials decided to cancel the tour and mentioned that arrangements were being made for the team's departure. New Zealand cricket did not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad. ALSO READ | Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour The Black Caps have abandoned the tour of Pakistan following a security alert from the New Zealand government. Details 👇https://t.co/GMVT3zm18y — ICC (@ICC) September 17, 2021 × Weighing in on the security measures, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams." "We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team." "The security officials with the NZ team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Govt of Pakistan throughout their stay here." "PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," the statement concluded.

'A planned conspiracy': Pakistan's interior minister reacts after New Zealand abandon cricket tour

After New Zealand abandoned their much-awaited tour of Pakistan citing security concerns, now doubts have been raised over England's proposed tour to Pakistan in October as well. The England Cricket Board released a statement informing that they will decide in the next 24-48 hours whether the planned tour should proceed.&nbsp;

Pakistan are due to host England for two Twenty20 internationals next month on October 13 and 14 as both men and women teams are currently due to travel to Pakistan, with the women's team to play a three-match ODI series as well. West Indies and Australia are also to tour in the next six months.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-over-security-concerns-heres-what-we-know-so-far-413887">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns: Here's what we know so far</a>

"We're aware of New Zealand's decision to pull out of the Pakistan tour due to a security alert," an ECB spokesperson said. "We are liaising with our security team who are on the ground in Pakistan to fully understand the situation. The ECB Board will then decide in the next 24-48 hours whether our planned tour should proceed."&nbsp;

In a massive blow to the South Asian country's hopes of staging regular international cricket, New Zealand Cricket abandoned their tour of Pakistan following a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), when the first match of the series was due to start.&nbsp;

International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

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The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert. 
 
Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure. 
 
More information | <a href="https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu">https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu</a>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1438800002042802178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-security-forces-and-bomb-disposal-squad-monitor-stadium-after-new-zealand-abandon-tour-413811">Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour</a>

The official statement on the NZC website read, "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. Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure."

The statement also added that New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.&nbsp;

After New Zealand abandoned their much-awaited tour of Pakistan citing security concerns, now doubts have been raised over England's proposed tour to Pakistan in October as well.

After New Zealand abandoned their much-awaited tour of Pakistan citing security concerns, now doubts have been raised over England's proposed tour to Pakistan in October as well. The England Cricket Board released a statement informing that they will decide in the next 24-48 hours whether the planned tour should proceed. Pakistan are due to host England for two Twenty20 internationals next month on October 13 and 14 as both men and women teams are currently due to travel to Pakistan, with the women's team to play a three-match ODI series as well. West Indies and Australia are also to tour in the next six months. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns: Here's what we know so far "We're aware of New Zealand's decision to pull out of the Pakistan tour due to a security alert," an ECB spokesperson said. "We are liaising with our security team who are on the ground in Pakistan to fully understand the situation. The ECB Board will then decide in the next 24-48 hours whether our planned tour should proceed." In a massive blow to the South Asian country's hopes of staging regular international cricket, New Zealand Cricket abandoned their tour of Pakistan following a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), when the first match of the series was due to start. International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert. Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure. More information | https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 17, 2021 × ALSO READ | Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour The official statement on the NZC website read, "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. Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure." The statement also added that New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.

Dark clouds over Pakistan vs England series after New Zealand abandon tour citing security concerns

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja called New Zealand's decision of cancelling the tour "an unfortunate scenario" but was also confident that Pakistan know how to overcome such crises. He also suggested the Pakistan team to channelise "frustration and anger" towards their performance ahead of the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

In a video posted on PCB's Twitter handle, Raja expressed his disappointment and urged fans to not lose hope and back the cricket team. He said, "It is a shared pain and whatever happened is not right for Pakistani cricket."

"We have experienced such situations in the past but we have always moved forward. We have a lot of resilience and strength, and that is because of the fans and the cricket team," he said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/as-pakistans-image-takes-a-nosedive-whats-next-for-the-cricket-crazy-nation-under-pm-imran-khan-414029">As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan?</a>

Pakistan vs New Zealand tour was due to start with the first of three one-dayers in Rawalpindi but New Zealand did not travel to the stadium, abandoning the entire tour citing security issues.&nbsp;

"Even if we don't manage to overcome it, we have enough confidence that we can create a world-class team while (playing) at a domestic level," he added. &nbsp;

"Release your frustration and anger by channelling it towards your performance. Take out your frustration in the coming World Cup by performing well," the former Pakistani cricketer said.&nbsp;

"Once you become a world-class team, people will start lining up to play. Everyone will want to play against you. So I want us to learn from this, move forward and keep strong. There is no need to be disappointed," he said.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

Watch the video here:

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PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja has a message for Pakistan cricket fans <a href="https://t.co/cwEfcQXxus">pic.twitter.com/cwEfcQXxus</a>
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealPCB/status/1439195823288590339?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Raja also admitted that the cancellation by the New Zealand team could also lead to more problems for the PCB. He said that international and domestic cricket in Pakistan has been put under pressure.

"But we will do whatever we can and you will soon get to hear good news and results. In the meantime we have to focus and put our energy into our domestic structure to produce world class players."

Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan in the wake of an attack by Islamist militants on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians, and there are fears New Zealand's decision to leave will keep them away.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-planned-conspiracy-pakistans-interior-minister-reacts-after-new-zealand-abandon-cricket-tour-413923">'A planned conspiracy': Pakistan's interior minister reacts after New Zealand abandon cricket tour</a>

England are already reconsidering their limited-overs trip to Pakistan next month while Australia, who are scheduled to visit in February-March next year, also appear wary.

A Cricket Australia spokesperson said the organisation was monitoring the situation and would "talk with the relevant authorities once more information becomes known".

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja called New Zealand's decision of cancelling the tour "an unfortunate scenario" but was also confident that Pakistan know how to overcome such crises.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja called New Zealand's decision of cancelling the tour "an unfortunate scenario" but was also confident that Pakistan know how to overcome such crises. He also suggested the Pakistan team to channelise "frustration and anger" towards their performance ahead of the T20 World Cup. In a video posted on PCB's Twitter handle, Raja expressed his disappointment and urged fans to not lose hope and back the cricket team. He said, "It is a shared pain and whatever happened is not right for Pakistani cricket." "We have experienced such situations in the past but we have always moved forward. We have a lot of resilience and strength, and that is because of the fans and the cricket team," he said. ALSO READ | As Pakistan's image takes a nosedive, what's next for the cricket-crazy nation under PM Imran Khan? Pakistan vs New Zealand tour was due to start with the first of three one-dayers in Rawalpindi but New Zealand did not travel to the stadium, abandoning the entire tour citing security issues. "Even if we don't manage to overcome it, we have enough confidence that we can create a world-class team while (playing) at a domestic level," he added. "Release your frustration and anger by channelling it towards your performance. Take out your frustration in the coming World Cup by performing well," the former Pakistani cricketer said. "Once you become a world-class team, people will start lining up to play. Everyone will want to play against you. So I want us to learn from this, move forward and keep strong. There is no need to be disappointed," he said. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds Watch the video here: PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja has a message for Pakistan cricket fans pic.twitter.com/cwEfcQXxus — Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 18, 2021 × Raja also admitted that the cancellation by the New Zealand team could also lead to more problems for the PCB. He said that international and domestic cricket in Pakistan has been put under pressure. "But we will do whatever we can and you will soon get to hear good news and results. In the meantime we have to focus and put our energy into our domestic structure to produce world class players." Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan in the wake of an attack by Islamist militants on the Sri Lanka team bus in Lahore in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians, and there are fears New Zealand's decision to leave will keep them away. ALSO READ | 'A planned conspiracy': Pakistan's interior minister reacts after New Zealand abandon cricket tour England are already reconsidering their limited-overs trip to Pakistan next month while Australia, who are scheduled to visit in February-March next year, also appear wary. A Cricket Australia spokesperson said the organisation was monitoring the situation and would "talk with the relevant authorities once more information becomes known".

'It's an unfortunate scenario': Ramiz Raja urges Pakistan cricketers to channelise anger into performance

New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns: Here's what we know so far

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar expressed his anger over the cancellation of the Pakistan vs New Zealand limited-overs series after the Blackcaps abandoned the entire tour on Friday (September 17) without playing a single match.

Taking to his official Twitter account, Akhtar wrote, "NZ just killed Pakistan cricket." It is worth mentioning that international cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years. However, cancellation of the NZ tour is a massive blow to the South Asian country.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-pakistan-security-forces-and-bomb-disposal-squad-monitor-stadium-after-new-zealand-abandon-tour-413811">Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour</a>

PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was also frustrated as he wrote on his Twitter account, "Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC."

Players like Mohammad Hafeez and Babar Azam also reacted to the news. "Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!" Babar wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

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NZ just killed Pakistan cricket 😡😡
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/shoaib100mph/status/1438820381075324932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC.
— Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) <a href="https://twitter.com/iramizraja/status/1438829120364978183?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!
— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) <a href="https://twitter.com/babarazam258/status/1438814618898608130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan 🇵🇰 is Safe &amp; Proud nation. Postponing series is absolutely Sad news for whole Nation.
— Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHafeez22/status/1438805927663063042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.

After the cancellation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams."

"We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-releases-statement-after-new-zealand-call-off-pakistan-tour-over-security-reasons-413756">PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons</a>

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern commented on the cancellation as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount.&nbsp;

"When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar expressed his anger over the cancellation of the Pakistan vs New Zealand limited-overs series after the Blackcaps abandoned the entire tour on Friday (September 17) without playing a single match.

Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar expressed his anger over the cancellation of the Pakistan vs New Zealand limited-overs series after the Blackcaps abandoned the entire tour on Friday (September 17) without playing a single match. Taking to his official Twitter account, Akhtar wrote, "NZ just killed Pakistan cricket." It is worth mentioning that international cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years. However, cancellation of the NZ tour is a massive blow to the South Asian country. ALSO READ | Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja was also frustrated as he wrote on his Twitter account, "Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC." Players like Mohammad Hafeez and Babar Azam also reacted to the news. "Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad!" Babar wrote on Twitter. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds NZ just killed Pakistan cricket 😡😡 — Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) September 17, 2021 × Crazy day it has been! Feel so sorry for the fans and our players. Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it’s not shared!! Which world is NZ living in??NZ will hear us at ICC. — Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) September 17, 2021 × Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan Cricket Fans. I've full trust in the capabilities and credibility of our security agencies. They are our pride and always will be! Pakistan Zindabad! — Babar Azam (@babarazam258) September 17, 2021 × Pakistan 🇵🇰 is Safe & Proud nation. Postponing series is absolutely Sad news for whole Nation. — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) September 17, 2021 × New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. After the cancellation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams." "We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team." ALSO READ | PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern commented on the cancellation as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount. "When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters.

'NZ just killed Pakistan cricket': Pak cricketers express frustration as New Zealand abandon tour

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement after New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan following a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), when the first match of the series was due to start.&nbsp;

New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.

After the cancellation, PCB wrote in a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams."

"We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-babar-azam-co-new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-over-security-concerns-413740">Big blow to Babar Azam &amp; Co.! New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns</a>

"The security officials with the NZ team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Govt of Pakistan throughout their stay here,"

"PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," the statement concluded.&nbsp;

New Zealand Cricket also announced the cancellation in an official statement on its website as the officials&nbsp;wrote, "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. Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure."

The statement also added that New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.&nbsp;

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The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert. 
 
Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure. 
 
More information | <a href="https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu">https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu</a>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1438800002042802178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-decision-to-resign-as-t20i-captain-completely-his-own-bcci-had-no-role-to-pay-report-413700">Virat Kohli's decision to resign as T20I captain completely his own, BCCI had no role to pay: Report</a>

The Kiwis were due to play three one-day internationals followed by five Twenty20 matches — their first in Pakistan since 2003. International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years.&nbsp;

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement after New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan following a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), when the first match of the series was due to start.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement after New Zealand abandoned their tour of Pakistan following a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), when the first match of the series was due to start. New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. After the cancellation, PCB wrote in a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams." "We have assured the NZ cricket board of the same. The Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best Intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team." ALSO READ | Big blow to Babar Azam & Co.! New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns "The security officials with the NZ team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Govt of Pakistan throughout their stay here," "PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," the statement concluded. New Zealand Cricket also announced the cancellation in an official statement on its website as the officials wrote, "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. Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure." The statement also added that New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad. The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert. Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure. More information | https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 17, 2021 × ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's decision to resign as T20I captain completely his own, BCCI had no role to pay: Report The Kiwis were due to play three one-day internationals followed by five Twenty20 matches — their first in Pakistan since 2003. International cricket in Pakistan was suspended in the aftermath of terror attacks against the Sri Lankan side in 2009, but has slowly revived over the past two years.

PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons

After the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-babar-azam-co-new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-over-security-concerns-413740"> New Zealand cricket team</a> abandoned their tour of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-babar-azam-co-new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-over-security-concerns-413740">Pakistan</a>&nbsp;citing&nbsp;a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), the bomb disposal squad and Pakistan security forces were spotted conducting search operations in the stadium.&nbsp;

New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi and then a five-match T20 series in Lahore was scheduled, however, in a bizarre turn of events, the Blackcaps cancelled the tour.&nbsp;

"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. Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure," the New Zealand cricket team wrote in a statement.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

The NZ officials also added that they will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.&nbsp;

However, in the latest development, a bomb disposal squad was spotted at the stadium as videos and images started getting viral on social media forums, but the severity of the threat is still unknown.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistani</a> security forces and Bomb disposal squads conducting search operations and sanitising cricket stadium. <a href="https://t.co/FDEe4QvlhB">pic.twitter.com/FDEe4QvlhB</a>
— Indian Military News (@indmilitarynews) <a href="https://twitter.com/indmilitarynews/status/1438849115689914372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Bomb defusing squad in Pindi Cricket stadium. NZ tour of Pakistan cancelled. 
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvNZ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvNZ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewZealand?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewZealand</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/OFx0NjoRcT">pic.twitter.com/OFx0NjoRcT</a>
— Subhash Bhargav (@Skbhargav71) <a href="https://twitter.com/Skbhargav71/status/1438816923811123207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-releases-statement-after-new-zealand-call-off-pakistan-tour-over-security-reasons-413756">PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons</a>

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also commented on the cancellation as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount.&nbsp;

"When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters.

"I know how disappointing it will be for everyone that the game hasn't gone ahead, but we totally support the decision that’s been made. Player safety has to be paramount."

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."

After the cancellation, PCB wrote in a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams."

After the New Zealand cricket team abandoned their tour of Pakistan citing a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), the bomb disposal squad and Pakistan security forces were spotted conducting search operations in the stadium.

After the New Zealand cricket team abandoned their tour of Pakistan citing a "security alert" on Friday (September 17), the bomb disposal squad and Pakistan security forces were spotted conducting search operations in the stadium. New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi and then a five-match T20 series in Lahore was scheduled, however, in a bizarre turn of events, the Blackcaps cancelled the tour. "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. Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure," the New Zealand cricket team wrote in a statement. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds The NZ officials also added that they will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad. However, in the latest development, a bomb disposal squad was spotted at the stadium as videos and images started getting viral on social media forums, but the severity of the threat is still unknown. Watch the video here: #Pakistani security forces and Bomb disposal squads conducting search operations and sanitising cricket stadium. pic.twitter.com/FDEe4QvlhB — Indian Military News (@indmilitarynews) September 17, 2021 × Bomb defusing squad in Pindi Cricket stadium. NZ tour of Pakistan cancelled. #PAKvNZ#NewZealand #Pakistan pic.twitter.com/OFx0NjoRcT — Subhash Bhargav (@Skbhargav71) September 17, 2021 × ALSO READ | PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern also commented on the cancellation as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount. "When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters. "I know how disappointing it will be for everyone that the game hasn't gone ahead, but we totally support the decision that’s been made. Player safety has to be paramount." 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." After the cancellation, PCB wrote in a statement: "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 and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams."

Watch: Pakistan security forces and bomb disposal squad monitor stadium after New Zealand abandon tour

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern commented on the cancellation of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-to-babar-azam-co-new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-over-security-concerns-413740">NZ's tour of Pakistan</a> as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount.&nbsp;

"When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters.

"I know how disappointing it will be for everyone that the game hasn't gone ahead, but we totally support the decision that’s been made. Player safety has to be paramount."

New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday (September 17) in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pcb-releases-statement-after-new-zealand-call-off-pakistan-tour-over-security-reasons-413756">PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons</a>

However, New Zealand's cricket team abandoned their tour of Pakistan citing "security alert" as it has been understood that the team refused to travel to the stadium in Rawalpindi where they were due to play the first one-day international against Pakistan.&nbsp;

"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," read the statement released on the official site of the New Zealand cricket team.&nbsp;

"Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure," the statement revealed further adding that New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-zealand-abandon-pakistan-tour-8-instances-when-sporting-events-got-affected-on-security-grounds-203590#2021-new-zealand-tour-of-pakistan-(cricket)-413772">New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds</a>

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."

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The Black Caps have abandoned the tour of Pakistan following a security alert from the New Zealand government. 
 
Details 👇<a href="https://t.co/GMVT3zm18y">https://t.co/GMVT3zm18y</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1438805504462053379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan Cricket Board's reaction

PCB said that New Zealand cricket officials had informed them that they were unilaterally suspending all their scheduled ODIs.&nbsp;

"PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," PCB said in statement.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern commented on the cancellation of NZ's tour of Pakistan as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern commented on the cancellation of NZ's tour of Pakistan as she said that she supports the decision that's been made and added that player safety has to be paramount. "When I spoke with the Prime Minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand Cricket team," Ardern said in a statement sent to Reuters. "I know how disappointing it will be for everyone that the game hasn't gone ahead, but we totally support the decision that’s been made. Player safety has to be paramount." New Zealand were supposed to play Pakistan on Friday (September 17) in the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi, before moving to Lahore for a five-match T20 series. ALSO READ | PCB releases statement after New Zealand call off Pakistan tour over security reasons However, New Zealand's cricket team abandoned their tour of Pakistan citing "security alert" as it has been understood that the team refused to travel to the stadium in Rawalpindi where they were due to play the first one-day international against Pakistan. "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," read the statement released on the official site of the New Zealand cricket team. "Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure," the statement revealed further adding that New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad. IN PICS | New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour: 8 instances when sporting events got affected on security grounds 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." The Black Caps have abandoned the tour of Pakistan following a security alert from the New Zealand government. Details 👇https://t.co/GMVT3zm18y — ICC (@ICC) September 17, 2021 × Pakistan Cricket Board's reaction PCB said that New Zealand cricket officials had informed them that they were unilaterally suspending all their scheduled ODIs. "PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," PCB said in statement.

'Totally support the decision': PM Jacinda Ardern reacts as New Zealand tour of Pakistan abandoned

New Zealand's cricket team abandoned their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-vs-new-zealand-2021-1st-odi-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-pak-vs-nz-413706">tour of Pakistan</a> following security concerns as it has been understood that the team refused to travel on Friday (September 17) to the stadium in Rawalpindi where they were due to play the first one-day international against Pakistan.&nbsp;

A statement was released on the official site of the New Zealand cricket team: "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."

"Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure," the statement further added. &nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohlis-decision-to-resign-as-t20i-captain-completely-his-own-bcci-had-no-role-to-pay-report-413700">Virat Kohli's decision to resign as T20I captain completely his own, BCCI had no role to pay: Report</a>

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."

The statement also added that&nbsp;New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.

New Zealand Cricket Players Association chief executive Heath Mills said, "We've been across this process throughout and are fully supportive of the decision."

"The players are in good hands; they're safe – and everyone's acting in their best interests," he added.&nbsp;

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The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert. 
 
Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure. 
 
More information | <a href="https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu">https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu</a>
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) <a href="https://twitter.com/BLACKCAPS/status/1438800002042802178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On the other hand, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Friday that New Zealand cricket officials had informed them that they were unilaterally suspending all their scheduled ODIs.&nbsp;

"PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," PCB said in statement.

It was New Zealand's visit Pakistan for the first time in 18 years to play three one-day internationals and five Twenty20 matches in Rawalpindi and Lahore.

New Zealand's cricket team abandoned their tour of Pakistan following security concerns as it has been understood that the team refused to travel on Friday (September 17) to the stadium in Rawalpindi where they were due to play the first one-day international against Pakistan.

New Zealand's cricket team abandoned their tour of Pakistan following security concerns as it has been understood that the team refused to travel on Friday (September 17) to the stadium in Rawalpindi where they were due to play the first one-day international against Pakistan. A statement was released on the official site of the New Zealand cricket team: "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." "Arrangements are now being made for the team's departure," the statement further added. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli's decision to resign as T20I captain completely his own, BCCI had no role to pay: Report 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." The statement also added that New Zealand will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad. New Zealand Cricket Players Association chief executive Heath Mills said, "We've been across this process throughout and are fully supportive of the decision." "The players are in good hands; they're safe – and everyone's acting in their best interests," he added. The BLACKCAPS are abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert. Arrangements are now being made for the team’s departure. More information | https://t.co/Lkgg6mAsfu — BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) September 17, 2021 × On the other hand, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said on Friday that New Zealand cricket officials had informed them that they were unilaterally suspending all their scheduled ODIs. "PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal," PCB said in statement. It was New Zealand's visit Pakistan for the first time in 18 years to play three one-day internationals and five Twenty20 matches in Rawalpindi and Lahore.

Big blow to Babar Azam & Co.! New Zealand abandon Pakistan tour over security concerns

The Babar Azam-led Pakistan cricket team will host New Zealand in the series opener of the three-match ODIs on Friday (September 17) at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi. For the unversed, New Zealand will play their first-ever international game on Pakistan soil after a long gap of 18 years. Their last visit to the country was in December 2003.

Without Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson, the Black Caps aren't at their full-strength but Tom Latham &amp; Co. have enough firepower to stun the unpredictable and inconsistent Pakistan line-up. The hosts are coming into the series on the back of a 0-3 whitewash they suffered at the hands of a second-stringed England team in England. On the other hand, Latham &amp; Co. lost 2-3 to Bangladesh in the five T20Is in the Asian country.&nbsp;

Hence, there's plenty to play for both sides in the upcoming three ODIs. The ODIs will be followed up a five-match T20I series, a perfect dress rehearsal for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Here's all you need to know about the first ODI&nbsp;between Pakistan and New Zealand:

Where will Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI&nbsp;be played?

The Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI will be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi.

When will Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI&nbsp;be played?

The Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI match will be played on September 17.

What time will Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI begin?

The Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI will begin at 3:00 PM IST. The toss will take place at 2:30 PM IST.

Which TV channels will broadcast Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI?

The Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI will have live telecast on Sony Six and Sony Six HD.

Where to watch live streaming of Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI match?

The live streaming for Pakistan vs New Zealand&nbsp;1st&nbsp;ODI will be available on SonyLiv application.

The Babar Azam-led Pakistan cricket team will host New Zealand in the series opener of the three-match ODIs on Friday (September 17) at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi.

The Babar Azam-led Pakistan cricket team will host New Zealand in the series opener of the three-match ODIs on Friday (September 17) at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi. For the unversed, New Zealand will play their first-ever international game on Pakistan soil after a long gap of 18 years. Their last visit to the country was in December 2003. Without Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, Kyle Jamieson, the Black Caps aren't at their full-strength but Tom Latham & Co. have enough firepower to stun the unpredictable and inconsistent Pakistan line-up. The hosts are coming into the series on the back of a 0-3 whitewash they suffered at the hands of a second-stringed England team in England. On the other hand, Latham & Co. lost 2-3 to Bangladesh in the five T20Is in the Asian country. Hence, there's plenty to play for both sides in the upcoming three ODIs. The ODIs will be followed up a five-match T20I series, a perfect dress rehearsal for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Here's all you need to know about the first ODI between Pakistan and New Zealand: Where will Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI be played? The Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI will be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi. When will Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI be played? The Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI match will be played on September 17. What time will Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI begin? The Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI will begin at 3:00 PM IST. The toss will take place at 2:30 PM IST. Which TV channels will broadcast Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI? The Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI will have live telecast on Sony Six and Sony Six HD. Where to watch live streaming of Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI match? The live streaming for Pakistan vs New Zealand 1st ODI will be available on SonyLiv application.

Pakistan vs New Zealand 2021, 1st ODI , Live Streaming: When and where to watch Pak vs NZ?

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.&nbsp;

Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli &amp; Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues.

Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-rohit-sharmas-backing-led-to-r-ashwins-inclusion-in-virat-kohli-led-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-reports-412041">How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports</a>

For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament.

Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game.

The cricketing fraternity is eagerly waiting for the commencement of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE soon after IPL 14's conclusion. While there is still a month left for the marquee event to kick off, there is plenty of excitement among the ardent cricket fans to see some top teams compete against each other for the biggest title in the shortest format of the game. Talking about India, the Virat Kohli-led team is placed in Group 2, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, New Zealand, Afghanistan and will be joined by two more teams from the qualifiers. Being the No. 2 ranked side in the format, Kohli & Co. are one of the strongest contenders to return with the title. However, they will have to start well as they face Babar Azam-led Pakistan in their opening encounter, on October 24 at Dubai. Ahead of the marquee clash, Gautam Gambhir -- who was an integral part of MS Dhoni-led India's victorious campaign in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 -- shared his India XI versus the Men in Green, while speaking on Star Sports' show Follow the Blues. Gambhir's XI comprises KL Rahul, vice-captain Rohit Sharma as openers with Captain Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav filling the top four. Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar comprise Gambhir's lower-order whereas Varun Chakravarthy is the lone-spinner along with pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah as the pacers (along with Hardik and Bhuvi). However, the former Indian opener's XI had no place for R Ashwin. ALSO READ | How Rohit Sharma's backing led to R Ashwin's inclusion in Virat Kohli-led India's T20 World Cup squad: Reports For the unversed, Ashwin has been named in India's 15-man squad for the mega event whereas Dhoni will join the team as the mentor for the big-ticket tournament. Gautam Gambhir's playing XI for Pakistan fixture: Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah

T20 World Cup: Varun Chakravarthy pips R Ashwin in Gautam Gambhir's India XI for marquee face-off vs Pakistan

In a shocking decision, Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis have stepped down from their respective roles one month before the T20 World Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board on Monday announced that Misbah and Waqar have resigned and that former Pakistan Test players, Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq would be interim coaches for the time being. The sudden changes coincide with the induction of former Test captain Ramiz Raja as the new Chairman of the board on September 13.

Ramiz on his YouTube channel and as a commentator and analyst has maintained that he does not believe Misbah and Waqar are the best coaches for the Pakistan team. Even the World Cup squad announced on Monday bears the influence of Ramiz in the selection process as he has been inclined towards younger players and power hitters in the T20 format. "Considering that I would have had to continue to spend considerable time away from my family in a bio-secure environment, I have decided to step down from the role," Misbah said in a statement.

Waqar said that after Misbah shared with him his decision and future plans, it was a straightforward decision for him to resign as they had walked into the roles together, had worked as a pair and now also stepped down together. The PCB said that Saqlain and Razzaq will join team management as interim coaches for the New Zealand series. Misbah and Waqar were appointed in September 2019 and still had a year each left in their contracts. The changes come with the New Zealand side due to arrive on September 11 for three ODIs and five T20Is and the Pakistan side to assemble in Islamabad on September 8.

The PCB said that the team management for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup will be appointed in due course. In his statement, Misbah, a former skipper said: "The quarantine in Jamaica post the West Indies series provided me with an opportunity to reflect on the past 24 months as well as the schedule for international cricket ahead. "Considering that I would have had to continue to spend considerable time away from my family and that too in a bio-secure environment, I have decided to step down from the role. "I understand that the timing may not be ideal but I don't think I am in the right frame of mind for the upcoming challenges and it makes sense for someone fresh to step-in and take the side forward."

Misbah was initially also appointed as chief selector with his head coach position in 2019 but had resigned last year from the selection job citing a heavy workload. Waqar Younis said working with the Pakistan bowlers, including the youngsters, has been the most satisfying thing for him as they have now started to show progress. "Bio-secure environments in the past 16 months have had their impact, something we had never experienced during our playing days," he said. "The next eight months will be busy and exciting for the Pakistan team and, like in the past, I will continue to back and cheer them on. I want to thank each and every member of the Pakistan cricket team set-up as we stayed united in good and bad days, and hope there will be brighter days ahead."

PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said the PCB understands and respects Misbah's decision. "Cricket in this unprecedented bio-secure world has not been easy for anyone and Misbah has clearly taken into account the intense six months of non-stop cricket ahead. "Both Misbah and Waqar have given so much to Pakistan cricket over a long period of time and for that they deserve a huge amount of respect."

Wasim Khan said that Saqlain and Razzaq have been appointed as interim coaches for the New Zealand series. Saqlain is the Head of International Player Development at the National High Performance Centre, while Razzaq's domestic side won three titles in the 2020-21 season. "Both Saqlain and Razzaq are ready to step-up and are very much looking forward to making important contributions in their coaching roles against New Zealand."

In a shocking decision, Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis have stepped down from their respective roles one month before the T20 World Cup.

In a shocking decision, Pakistan head coach Misbah-ul-Haq and bowling coach Waqar Younis have stepped down from their respective roles one month before the T20 World Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board on Monday announced that Misbah and Waqar have resigned and that former Pakistan Test players, Saqlain Mushtaq and Abdul Razzaq would be interim coaches for the time being. The sudden changes coincide with the induction of former Test captain Ramiz Raja as the new Chairman of the board on September 13. Ramiz on his YouTube channel and as a commentator and analyst has maintained that he does not believe Misbah and Waqar are the best coaches for the Pakistan team. Even the World Cup squad announced on Monday bears the influence of Ramiz in the selection process as he has been inclined towards younger players and power hitters in the T20 format. "Considering that I would have had to continue to spend considerable time away from my family in a bio-secure environment, I have decided to step down from the role," Misbah said in a statement. Waqar said that after Misbah shared with him his decision and future plans, it was a straightforward decision for him to resign as they had walked into the roles together, had worked as a pair and now also stepped down together. The PCB said that Saqlain and Razzaq will join team management as interim coaches for the New Zealand series. Misbah and Waqar were appointed in September 2019 and still had a year each left in their contracts. The changes come with the New Zealand side due to arrive on September 11 for three ODIs and five T20Is and the Pakistan side to assemble in Islamabad on September 8. The PCB said that the team management for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup will be appointed in due course. In his statement, Misbah, a former skipper said: "The quarantine in Jamaica post the West Indies series provided me with an opportunity to reflect on the past 24 months as well as the schedule for international cricket ahead. "Considering that I would have had to continue to spend considerable time away from my family and that too in a bio-secure environment, I have decided to step down from the role. "I understand that the timing may not be ideal but I don't think I am in the right frame of mind for the upcoming challenges and it makes sense for someone fresh to step-in and take the side forward." Misbah was initially also appointed as chief selector with his head coach position in 2019 but had resigned last year from the selection job citing a heavy workload. Waqar Younis said working with the Pakistan bowlers, including the youngsters, has been the most satisfying thing for him as they have now started to show progress. "Bio-secure environments in the past 16 months have had their impact, something we had never experienced during our playing days," he said. "The next eight months will be busy and exciting for the Pakistan team and, like in the past, I will continue to back and cheer them on. I want to thank each and every member of the Pakistan cricket team set-up as we stayed united in good and bad days, and hope there will be brighter days ahead." PCB Chief Executive Wasim Khan said the PCB understands and respects Misbah's decision. "Cricket in this unprecedented bio-secure world has not been easy for anyone and Misbah has clearly taken into account the intense six months of non-stop cricket ahead. "Both Misbah and Waqar have given so much to Pakistan cricket over a long period of time and for that they deserve a huge amount of respect." Wasim Khan said that Saqlain and Razzaq have been appointed as interim coaches for the New Zealand series. Saqlain is the Head of International Player Development at the National High Performance Centre, while Razzaq's domestic side won three titles in the 2020-21 season. "Both Saqlain and Razzaq are ready to step-up and are very much looking forward to making important contributions in their coaching roles against New Zealand."

Big blow to Pakistan! Misbah-ul-Haq, Waqar Younis step down from respective coaching roles ahead of T20 World Cup

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE after IPL 2021. Both the senior men's cricket team haven't faced each other since the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter and, thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering clash, on October 24 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

Ahead of the marquee clash, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam feels Virat Kohli-led India will be under more pressure.&nbsp; Speaking ahead of encounter between the two bitter rivals, Azam said that his side would like to start Pakistan's campaign by ending its losing streak against the Men in Blue in World Cup. "India will be under more pressure, as compared to Pakistan, during the T20 World Cup match as they have not played T20 cricket as a group for quite a while. India are currently playing Test cricket and after that, they will get busy with franchise cricket. The UAE is like our home ground and we will try to give our 100 percent on the field," Azam was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Cricket Pakistan.

"He shared his mindset with us and we would carry that forward. We have picked a balanced squad for New Zealand ODIs. We are facing issues in the middle-order and this series is a good opportunity for players making a comeback to cement their place in the side. There is no pressure of captaincy on me," Azam added.&nbsp;

To back Babar's claims, Kohli-led India's main squad hasn't played together in T20Is since their England home series in early 2021. India had played three T20Is in Sri Lanka in July but it comprised several uncapped Indian players, led by Shikhar Dhawan. While all the Indian players will be seen in IPL 2021's second and final leg, ahead of the T20 WC, it won't be easy for them to regroup and start well in the showpiece event.

Nonetheless, India will remain confident ahead of facing an opposition they've always managed to beat in World Cups (ODIs and T20Is). India lead Pakistan 7-0 in ODI World Cup whereas are 5-0 ahead in terms of head-to-head battle in the T20 WC.

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE after IPL 2021. Both the senior men's cricket team haven't faced each other since the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter and, thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering clash, on October 24 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai.

India and Pakistan are set to lock horns in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, to be held in the UAE after IPL 2021. Both the senior men's cricket team haven't faced each other since the 2019 ODI World Cup group stage encounter and, thus, it is expected to be a mouth-watering clash, on October 24 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai. Ahead of the marquee clash, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam feels Virat Kohli-led India will be under more pressure. Speaking ahead of encounter between the two bitter rivals, Azam said that his side would like to start Pakistan's campaign by ending its losing streak against the Men in Blue in World Cup. "India will be under more pressure, as compared to Pakistan, during the T20 World Cup match as they have not played T20 cricket as a group for quite a while. India are currently playing Test cricket and after that, they will get busy with franchise cricket. The UAE is like our home ground and we will try to give our 100 percent on the field," Azam was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan. "He shared his mindset with us and we would carry that forward. We have picked a balanced squad for New Zealand ODIs. We are facing issues in the middle-order and this series is a good opportunity for players making a comeback to cement their place in the side. There is no pressure of captaincy on me," Azam added. To back Babar's claims, Kohli-led India's main squad hasn't played together in T20Is since their England home series in early 2021. India had played three T20Is in Sri Lanka in July but it comprised several uncapped Indian players, led by Shikhar Dhawan. While all the Indian players will be seen in IPL 2021's second and final leg, ahead of the T20 WC, it won't be easy for them to regroup and start well in the showpiece event. Nonetheless, India will remain confident ahead of facing an opposition they've always managed to beat in World Cups (ODIs and T20Is). India lead Pakistan 7-0 in ODI World Cup whereas are 5-0 ahead in terms of head-to-head battle in the T20 WC.

They haven't played T20 cricket as a group: Babar Azam feels Virat Kohli-led India will be under pressure ahead of marquee clash at WC

Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam has termed Shaheen Afridi a "genuine talent" after the tall pacer had a 10-wicket match haul in the tourist`s 109-run victory over West Indies in the second Test at Sabina Park on Wednesday (IST). 
 
Thanks to Afridi`s maiden 10-wicket haul, Pakistan after losing the opening Test, clawed back in the second to level the series. 
 
In the opening Test as well, Afridi had a match haul of eight wickets but West Indies eked out a one-wicket victory, with tailender Kemar Roach scoring a brilliant unbeaten 30 to guide the team to a historic win. 
 
Hailing Afridi, Azam said at the post-match presentation that, "It was an important game for us after losing the first one. The way I played with Fawad and made that partnership was crucial and I thank the almighty for getting us this win. The partnership helped us and then that exceptional spell from Shaheen yesterday made things easy for us." 
 
Azam had scored 75, and Fawad Alam notched up an unbeaten 124 as they guided Pakistan to 302/9 declared in the first innings and then put pressure on the home team. 
 
"[Shaheen] he is a genuine talent, seems like he`s improving day by day and it`s lovely to have and watch someone like him in the team," added Azam. 
 
After dismissing West Indies for 150, Pakistan went for a quick declaration in the second innings scoring 176/6 in the second innings in only 27.2 overs to leave West Indies in a difficult situation on a tricky wicket. 
 
"We knew that the ball would turn on the last day and it worked out well. [Declaration] The plan was to take it to 330-340 and give them whatever number of overs were left after that on Day 4. We needed to win the series so we had to take a bold decision. 
 
"The bowlers delivered, Nauman Ali especially on the final day, took some crucial wickets. We thought the last day would help the spinners, some patches were being formed. We knew it would assist Nauman and he used it well," said Azam. 
 
"Such a great effort, it`s a team effort. The team needed from me and I delivered this time. It was tough because last day and the weather is really hot. As a team we knew that getting one wicket would get us another, so we looked to give 100 per cent. All credit goes to my brother Riaz Afridi -- he`s a brother, he`s a father, he`s everything to me. Credit to my family as well who are always praying for me," said Afridi. 
&nbsp;

Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam has termed Shaheen Afridi a "genuine talent" after the tall pacer had a 10-wicket match haul in the tourist`s 109-run victory over West Indies in the second Test at Sabina Park on Wednesday (IST).

Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam has termed Shaheen Afridi a "genuine talent" after the tall pacer had a 10-wicket match haul in the tourist`s 109-run victory over West Indies in the second Test at Sabina Park on Wednesday (IST). Thanks to Afridi`s maiden 10-wicket haul, Pakistan after losing the opening Test, clawed back in the second to level the series. In the opening Test as well, Afridi had a match haul of eight wickets but West Indies eked out a one-wicket victory, with tailender Kemar Roach scoring a brilliant unbeaten 30 to guide the team to a historic win. Hailing Afridi, Azam said at the post-match presentation that, "It was an important game for us after losing the first one. The way I played with Fawad and made that partnership was crucial and I thank the almighty for getting us this win. The partnership helped us and then that exceptional spell from Shaheen yesterday made things easy for us." Azam had scored 75, and Fawad Alam notched up an unbeaten 124 as they guided Pakistan to 302/9 declared in the first innings and then put pressure on the home team. "[Shaheen] he is a genuine talent, seems like he`s improving day by day and it`s lovely to have and watch someone like him in the team," added Azam. After dismissing West Indies for 150, Pakistan went for a quick declaration in the second innings scoring 176/6 in the second innings in only 27.2 overs to leave West Indies in a difficult situation on a tricky wicket. "We knew that the ball would turn on the last day and it worked out well. [Declaration] The plan was to take it to 330-340 and give them whatever number of overs were left after that on Day 4. We needed to win the series so we had to take a bold decision. "The bowlers delivered, Nauman Ali especially on the final day, took some crucial wickets. We thought the last day would help the spinners, some patches were being formed. We knew it would assist Nauman and he used it well," said Azam. "Such a great effort, it`s a team effort. The team needed from me and I delivered this time. It was tough because last day and the weather is really hot. As a team we knew that getting one wicket would get us another, so we looked to give 100 per cent. All credit goes to my brother Riaz Afridi -- he`s a brother, he`s a father, he`s everything to me. Credit to my family as well who are always praying for me," said Afridi.

Shaheen Afridi a genuine talent, says Babar Azam after Pakistan beat West Indies

Pakistan had a poor start against West Indies on the first day of the second Test in Jamaica after their top three batsmen failed to score runs and were down to 2 for 3. However, Babar Azam and Fawad Alam stitched a 166-run stand for the fourth wicket to rescue the visitors.&nbsp;

Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja has expressed his disappointment in the top-order batsman. “Pakistan had a close shave against West Indies. They lost 3 wickets at a score of 2, they lost the last match. So, they needed a good beginning from the top-order which they couldn’t get,” Raja said in his YouTube video.

“Pakistan is facing an issue with their top-order in overseas tours for quite a long time now. And the reason is, they are not able to adjust. It’s a fact that pitches in Jamaica aren’t easy to bat. You couldn’t score until you acclimatize to the condition and make adjustments to your techniques. The top three produced a poor performance technically and their intent is getting challenged. When you give up upon that, it’s difficult to survive.

“Azhar Ali has played so many Test matches but he is yet to establish the balance at the crease. His reflexes are getting slower with age. He needs to do something in his last Test innings here and Pakistan would need him. Same goes with the openers. Unless they provide good starts, Pakistan can’t be a big team in Test cricket,” he added.

“Openers are considered the pillars of a team but that role is being played by captain Babar Azam and Fawad Alam. They batted brilliantly. They need to be applauded because it has become a norm that whenever the top-order fails, they come and get themselves to work. They were the reason Pakistan managed to avoid an embarrassing day,” Raja said.

Pakistan had a poor start against West Indies on the first day of the second Test in Jamaica after their top three batsmen failed to score runs and were down to 2 for 3.

Pakistan had a poor start against West Indies on the first day of the second Test in Jamaica after their top three batsmen failed to score runs and were down to 2 for 3. However, Babar Azam and Fawad Alam stitched a 166-run stand for the fourth wicket to rescue the visitors. Former Pakistan skipper Ramiz Raja has expressed his disappointment in the top-order batsman. “Pakistan had a close shave against West Indies. They lost 3 wickets at a score of 2, they lost the last match. So, they needed a good beginning from the top-order which they couldn’t get,” Raja said in his YouTube video. “Pakistan is facing an issue with their top-order in overseas tours for quite a long time now. And the reason is, they are not able to adjust. It’s a fact that pitches in Jamaica aren’t easy to bat. You couldn’t score until you acclimatize to the condition and make adjustments to your techniques. The top three produced a poor performance technically and their intent is getting challenged. When you give up upon that, it’s difficult to survive. “Azhar Ali has played so many Test matches but he is yet to establish the balance at the crease. His reflexes are getting slower with age. He needs to do something in his last Test innings here and Pakistan would need him. Same goes with the openers. Unless they provide good starts, Pakistan can’t be a big team in Test cricket,” he added. “Openers are considered the pillars of a team but that role is being played by captain Babar Azam and Fawad Alam. They batted brilliantly. They need to be applauded because it has become a norm that whenever the top-order fails, they come and get themselves to work. They were the reason Pakistan managed to avoid an embarrassing day,” Raja said.

'Pakistan is facing an issue with their top-order in overseas tours': Ramiz Raja

Babar Azam missed out on a hundred but Fawad Alam may yet have the chance to reach three figures after the pair lifted&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;from a horrific start to end day one of the second Test against the West Indies in relative comfort at 212 for four at Sabina Park on Friday.

Babar's composed 75 through almost five hours at the crease and Fawad's typically pugnacious 76 before retiring hurt from severe leg cramps just after tea rescued the tourists from the depths of three for two.

Kemar Roach once again led the charge with the ball for the home side, taking three for 49 off 17 overs, striking in his first two overs of the match.

He then returned in the final session to claim the all-important wicket of Babar when the&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;captain appeared to be moving serenely towards a sixth Test century.

His fourth-wicket stand with Fawad was worth 158 when the awkward-looking left-hander had to limp off the field on a sweltering afternoon in the Jamaican capital where temperatures hit 34 degrees.

Those dehydrating conditions also claimed West Indies wicketkeeper Joshua da Silva who was replaced by Jahmar Hamilton for the rest of the day when the first-choice gloveman left the field just before tea.

Despite Babar's dismissal and the temporary loss of Fawad,&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;remain on course for a challenging first innings total with Mohammad Rizwan and Faheem Ashraf set to resume on the second morning in a fifth-wicket partnership that has added 44 runs.

That promising position was in stark contrast though to the situation&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;found themselves in when they were tottering at two for three just four overs into the day.

'Buckled down'

Their hopes for a solid start after being put in crumbled in the very first over when Abid Ali fell to a good low catch by Jermaine Blackwood at third slip off Roach.&nbsp;

Revelling in the bowler-friendly conditions, the senior seamer then dismissed Azhar Ali without scoring, the former captain edging a delivery through to da Silva.

Jayden Seales, man of the match in the first Test when he claimed eight wickets including five in the second innings, enjoyed his share of the early spoils.

He drew the other opener, Imran Butt, into playing at another full-length delivery for da Silva to take his second straightforward catch in nine balls.

Babar and Fawad then displayed admirable grit and discipline in defying West Indies' all-pace attack with the elegant skipper countering with a handful of handsome boundaries.

Fawad was again a model of unorthodox defiance given his much-talked about exaggerated square-on batting stance.

"I thought Kemar (Roach) should have extended his opening spell for a couple more overs given that he was bowling so well and the conditions were really helpful to the bowlers at that time," said West Indies bowling coach Roddy Estwick.

"Still, you have to give credit to the way Babar and Fawad played because they buckled down well and worked hard to get their team in a decent position."

The pair played with increasing freedom in the post-lunch period as 83 runs were added in the two hours of play.

They looked set to prosper even more in the day's final session but Fawad fell victim to the conditions.

Whether or not his departure upset his skipper's concentration, Babar's innings ended an hour into the post-tea period via a sharp low catch at second slip by Jason Holder off Roach.

West Indies are seeking a first Test series triumph over&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;for 21 years.

The visitors are hoping to repeat the efforts of the 2005 and 2011 tours of the Caribbean when they lost the first encounters before rebounding to square both two-Test series.

Babar Azam missed out on a hundred but Fawad Alam may yet have the chance to reach three figures after the pair lifted Pakistan from a horrific start to end day one of the second Test against the West Indies in relative comfort at 212 for four at Sabina Park on Friday.

Babar Azam missed out on a hundred but Fawad Alam may yet have the chance to reach three figures after the pair lifted Pakistan from a horrific start to end day one of the second Test against the West Indies in relative comfort at 212 for four at Sabina Park on Friday. Babar's composed 75 through almost five hours at the crease and Fawad's typically pugnacious 76 before retiring hurt from severe leg cramps just after tea rescued the tourists from the depths of three for two. Kemar Roach once again led the charge with the ball for the home side, taking three for 49 off 17 overs, striking in his first two overs of the match. He then returned in the final session to claim the all-important wicket of Babar when the Pakistan captain appeared to be moving serenely towards a sixth Test century. His fourth-wicket stand with Fawad was worth 158 when the awkward-looking left-hander had to limp off the field on a sweltering afternoon in the Jamaican capital where temperatures hit 34 degrees. Those dehydrating conditions also claimed West Indies wicketkeeper Joshua da Silva who was replaced by Jahmar Hamilton for the rest of the day when the first-choice gloveman left the field just before tea. Despite Babar's dismissal and the temporary loss of Fawad, Pakistan remain on course for a challenging first innings total with Mohammad Rizwan and Faheem Ashraf set to resume on the second morning in a fifth-wicket partnership that has added 44 runs. That promising position was in stark contrast though to the situation Pakistan found themselves in when they were tottering at two for three just four overs into the day. 'Buckled down' Their hopes for a solid start after being put in crumbled in the very first over when Abid Ali fell to a good low catch by Jermaine Blackwood at third slip off Roach. Revelling in the bowler-friendly conditions, the senior seamer then dismissed Azhar Ali without scoring, the former captain edging a delivery through to da Silva. Jayden Seales, man of the match in the first Test when he claimed eight wickets including five in the second innings, enjoyed his share of the early spoils. He drew the other opener, Imran Butt, into playing at another full-length delivery for da Silva to take his second straightforward catch in nine balls. Babar and Fawad then displayed admirable grit and discipline in defying West Indies' all-pace attack with the elegant skipper countering with a handful of handsome boundaries. Fawad was again a model of unorthodox defiance given his much-talked about exaggerated square-on batting stance. "I thought Kemar (Roach) should have extended his opening spell for a couple more overs given that he was bowling so well and the conditions were really helpful to the bowlers at that time," said West Indies bowling coach Roddy Estwick. "Still, you have to give credit to the way Babar and Fawad played because they buckled down well and worked hard to get their team in a decent position." The pair played with increasing freedom in the post-lunch period as 83 runs were added in the two hours of play. They looked set to prosper even more in the day's final session but Fawad fell victim to the conditions. Whether or not his departure upset his skipper's concentration, Babar's innings ended an hour into the post-tea period via a sharp low catch at second slip by Jason Holder off Roach. West Indies are seeking a first Test series triumph over Pakistan for 21 years. The visitors are hoping to repeat the efforts of the 2005 and 2011 tours of the Caribbean when they lost the first encounters before rebounding to square both two-Test series.

Babar Azam, Fawad Alam lead Pakistan recovery in sweltering second Test against West Indies

Pakistan captain Babar Azam returned to form with a record-breaking 158 yet once again found himself on the losing side as England completed a 3-0 one-day international series clean sweep at Edgbaston on Tuesday.&nbsp;

His highest score at this level saw Azam become the quickest player to 14 hundreds in men's ODIs as the 26-year-old reached the landmark in 81 innings -- three fewer than South Africa's Hashim Amla.

Together with Mohammad Rizwan, he shared a stand of 179, a Pakistan partnership record against England in an ODI.

Yet despite a total of 331-9, Pakistan still suffered a three-wicket defeat after England's James Vince posted his maiden international hundred.

Azam, top of the ODI batting rankings, was back in the runs after a score of nought and 19 in the first two games but that did not take the edge of this reverse.

"We started well but were sloppy in the field," he said. "We will learn from our mistakes."

While Azam is no stranger to international hundreds, it took Vince six years to register his first on the world stage.

The 30-year-old Hampshire captain at last reached three figures in a 50th innings for his country across all three formats with a knock of 102.

Yet, together with the rest of a brand new squad, Vince was only called up by England days before the series opener after all those originally selected had to self-isolate following a coronavirus outbreak within the 50-over world champions' camp.&nbsp;

"I hadn't given up on this moment but this time last week I didn't expect it at all," said Vince, who made his England debut in May 2015.

"I wasn't sure it was going to come. I've played a number of games and not got there for England, but to score a hundred for my country was one of my dreams growing up. I'll never forget that."

England are expected to recall several first-choice players when they name their squad for an upcoming Twenty20 series against Pakistan on Wednesday.

Several of their Test batsmen, however, struggled in a recent 1-0 series loss to New Zealand.

But Vince's modest Test average of 24.90 reflects how the talented shotmaker has often got himself out playing loose strokes.&nbsp;

"I'm not going to start thinking I should be on the plane to the Ashes or in all the squads from now on," he said.

"I know the opinion on my career is that I've got starts but not made big contributions: the opinion is like that because that's been the case.

"But hopefully this will give me more confidence and some other people as well. Today can help me going forward."

Pakistan captain Babar Azam returned to form with a record-breaking 158 yet once again found himself on the losing side as England completed a 3-0 one-day international series clean sweep at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam returned to form with a record-breaking 158 yet once again found himself on the losing side as England completed a 3-0 one-day international series clean sweep at Edgbaston on Tuesday. His highest score at this level saw Azam become the quickest player to 14 hundreds in men's ODIs as the 26-year-old reached the landmark in 81 innings -- three fewer than South Africa's Hashim Amla. Together with Mohammad Rizwan, he shared a stand of 179, a Pakistan partnership record against England in an ODI. Yet despite a total of 331-9, Pakistan still suffered a three-wicket defeat after England's James Vince posted his maiden international hundred. Azam, top of the ODI batting rankings, was back in the runs after a score of nought and 19 in the first two games but that did not take the edge of this reverse. "We started well but were sloppy in the field," he said. "We will learn from our mistakes." While Azam is no stranger to international hundreds, it took Vince six years to register his first on the world stage. The 30-year-old Hampshire captain at last reached three figures in a 50th innings for his country across all three formats with a knock of 102. Yet, together with the rest of a brand new squad, Vince was only called up by England days before the series opener after all those originally selected had to self-isolate following a coronavirus outbreak within the 50-over world champions' camp. "I hadn't given up on this moment but this time last week I didn't expect it at all," said Vince, who made his England debut in May 2015. "I wasn't sure it was going to come. I've played a number of games and not got there for England, but to score a hundred for my country was one of my dreams growing up. I'll never forget that." England are expected to recall several first-choice players when they name their squad for an upcoming Twenty20 series against Pakistan on Wednesday. Several of their Test batsmen, however, struggled in a recent 1-0 series loss to New Zealand. But Vince's modest Test average of 24.90 reflects how the talented shotmaker has often got himself out playing loose strokes. "I'm not going to start thinking I should be on the plane to the Ashes or in all the squads from now on," he said. "I know the opinion on my career is that I've got starts but not made big contributions: the opinion is like that because that's been the case. "But hopefully this will give me more confidence and some other people as well. Today can help me going forward."

Cricket: Record-breaking Azam's ODI best can't stop England sweep of Pakistan

Pakistan suffered a 3-0 whitewash against England after losing third and final against Stokes and Co. at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Several former Pakistan cricketers were disappointed that a full-strength Men in Green could not beat an English team that was assembled just a couple of days before their first team was isolated due to a coronavirus outbreak.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-record-breaking-azams-odi-best-cant-stop-england-sweep-of-pakistan-397983" hreflang="en">Cricket: Record-breaking Azam's ODI best can't stop England sweep of Pakistan</a>

Shoaib Akhtar has expressed his disappointment with the performance of Babar Azam and Co. and called it "shameful". He went on to criticise the Pakistan Cricket Board and called it "average".&nbsp;

“It's a shameful performance. Our board is average. It brings average people, the management is average so obviously, they are going to build an average team. You can’t expect extraordinary things from average people. It’s wrong for you to expect.

“Crowd are coming to the ground but after watching such performances, the fan following will never grow. There is no star to inspire the youngsters. Then how can you bring the next Shoaib Akhtar, Shahid Afridi or Wasim Akram? You have to build brand,” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel.

After a disappointing show in the first two ODIs, Pakistan put up a strong batting show in the third One Day, with skipper Babar Azam scoring his career-best 158, which is also the most by any Pakistan player against England and posted a string 331 at the loss of 9 wickets.&nbsp;

However, they miserably failed to defend the total and England, with the help of James Vince's maiden ton, easily chased the target within 48 overs with three wickets remaining.&nbsp;

“Why this England team is doing so much better than us? Our mindset after we lose a couple of wickets is to bat steadily, build partnerships and then only try and attack in the last 10 overs. This is 70s cricket. We are stuck in the 70s. England say even if we are bowled out in 40 overs we will make sure we get 300. Every England batsman that walked in, kept the scoreboard moving and it was not mindless slogging. It was methodical hitting, there was rotation of strike. But we are playing 70s cricket because our mindset is like that, we don’t want to improve,” Akhtar said.

“Pakistan cricket is in a serious situation. They are in treacherous waters. It’s a very hopeless situation for PCB and Pakistan. I don’t know what the authorities are thinking but it’s a very hopeless situation. I’m not saying because I need a job but I’m saying this because I’m hurt. I played this game for my country. I ran in and I made sure people get value for their money. And they did that. Unfortunately, I’m not getting value for money from this team. This is not defendable, this is unexpected. This must be looked into,” he said.

Babar Azam and Co. will now take on England in a three-match T20I series starting from July 16.

Pakistan suffered a 3-0 whitewash against England after losing third and final against Stokes and Co. at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Several former Pakistan cricketers were disappointed that a full-strength Men in Green could not beat an English team that was assembled just a couple of days before their first team was isolated due to a coronavirus outbreak.

Pakistan suffered a 3-0 whitewash against England after losing third and final against Stokes and Co. at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Several former Pakistan cricketers were disappointed that a full-strength Men in Green could not beat an English team that was assembled just a couple of days before their first team was isolated due to a coronavirus outbreak. ALSO READ: Cricket: Record-breaking Azam's ODI best can't stop England sweep of Pakistan Shoaib Akhtar has expressed his disappointment with the performance of Babar Azam and Co. and called it "shameful". He went on to criticise the Pakistan Cricket Board and called it "average". “It's a shameful performance. Our board is average. It brings average people, the management is average so obviously, they are going to build an average team. You can’t expect extraordinary things from average people. It’s wrong for you to expect. “Crowd are coming to the ground but after watching such performances, the fan following will never grow. There is no star to inspire the youngsters. Then how can you bring the next Shoaib Akhtar, Shahid Afridi or Wasim Akram? You have to build brand,” Akhtar said on his YouTube channel. After a disappointing show in the first two ODIs, Pakistan put up a strong batting show in the third One Day, with skipper Babar Azam scoring his career-best 158, which is also the most by any Pakistan player against England and posted a string 331 at the loss of 9 wickets. However, they miserably failed to defend the total and England, with the help of James Vince's maiden ton, easily chased the target within 48 overs with three wickets remaining. “Why this England team is doing so much better than us? Our mindset after we lose a couple of wickets is to bat steadily, build partnerships and then only try and attack in the last 10 overs. This is 70s cricket. We are stuck in the 70s. England say even if we are bowled out in 40 overs we will make sure we get 300. Every England batsman that walked in, kept the scoreboard moving and it was not mindless slogging. It was methodical hitting, there was rotation of strike. But we are playing 70s cricket because our mindset is like that, we don’t want to improve,” Akhtar said. “Pakistan cricket is in a serious situation. They are in treacherous waters. It’s a very hopeless situation for PCB and Pakistan. I don’t know what the authorities are thinking but it’s a very hopeless situation. I’m not saying because I need a job but I’m saying this because I’m hurt. I played this game for my country. I ran in and I made sure people get value for their money. And they did that. Unfortunately, I’m not getting value for money from this team. This is not defendable, this is unexpected. This must be looked into,” he said. Babar Azam and Co. will now take on England in a three-match T20I series starting from July 16.

Cricket- 'It's a shameful performance': Shoaib Akhtar criticises Babar Azam and Co. after England whitewash

England's makeshift one-day international team put the COVID-19 issues that hit the previous squad behind them to bowl out Pakistan for 141 runs before cruising to a clinical nine-wicket win in the series opener in Cardiff on Thursday.

Stand-in skipper Ben Stokes led an entirely fresh England XI, including five debutants, after a COVID-19 outbreak in the squad during the recent series win over Sri Lanka meant all 16 players initially selected had to self-isolate.

But the revamped hosts were on the front foot from the start, with paceman Saqib Mahmood marking his return to the side with four wickets for 42 to help bowl out Pakistan with just under 15 overs to spare.

Chasing 142 for a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, England lost Phil Salt in the fifth over before fellow opener Dawid Malan and Zak Crawley steadied the ship.

Malan (68 not out) brought up his second fifty in his fourth ODI appearance and Crawley (58 not out) also scored a half-century on his ODI debut as England cruised home in 21.5 overs.

"It was a very clinical performance," said Stokes after leading the team to victory despite them having spent only one training session together on the eve of the match.

"Any time you get the opposition four down early on then you're massively ahead in the game so that helps -- especially when you're captain for the first time.

"Not every game of&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;goes that smoothly for us."

England made a rousing start with the ball in hand on a sunny afternoon as Mahmood trapped Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq leg-before with the first delivery of the match.

Two balls later, Mahmood picked up his second wicket when Pakistan skipper Babar Azam -- the top-ranked ODI batsman -- departed for a duck after edging to Crawley at second slip.

Mohammad Rizwan was next to be dismissed for 13 before Mahmood trapped Saud Shakeel in front of the stumps to leave Pakistan teetering at 26-4.

Opener Fakhar Zaman, who was making a return to the ground where he made a fifty in Pakistan's 2017 Champions Trophy semi-final win over England, offered stiff resistance with Sohaib Maqsood as they added 53 runs for the fifth wicket.

The partnership, however, ended with a farcical run out when Fakhar called Maqsood for a single and then left him stranded as James Vince flicked the bails.

Pakistan's hopes of posting a competitive total ended with Zaman (47) miscuing a square-cut straight to point off leg-spinner Matt Parkinson.

"To be honest we were a bit loose with the bat, and that's why we didn't get a big total," Azam said.

"I don't think we misread the conditions, but credit to their bowlers. The momentum they got, and the fact we couldn't get a big partnership, is why we didn't get a big total."

The teams now head to the Lord's for the second ODI on Saturday.

England's makeshift one-day international team put the COVID-19 issues that hit the previous squad behind them to bowl out Pakistan for 141 runs before cruising to a clinical nine-wicket win in the series opener in Cardiff on Thursday.

England's makeshift one-day international team put the COVID-19 issues that hit the previous squad behind them to bowl out Pakistan for 141 runs before cruising to a clinical nine-wicket win in the series opener in Cardiff on Thursday. Stand-in skipper Ben Stokes led an entirely fresh England XI, including five debutants, after a COVID-19 outbreak in the squad during the recent series win over Sri Lanka meant all 16 players initially selected had to self-isolate. But the revamped hosts were on the front foot from the start, with paceman Saqib Mahmood marking his return to the side with four wickets for 42 to help bowl out Pakistan with just under 15 overs to spare. Chasing 142 for a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, England lost Phil Salt in the fifth over before fellow opener Dawid Malan and Zak Crawley steadied the ship. Malan (68 not out) brought up his second fifty in his fourth ODI appearance and Crawley (58 not out) also scored a half-century on his ODI debut as England cruised home in 21.5 overs. "It was a very clinical performance," said Stokes after leading the team to victory despite them having spent only one training session together on the eve of the match. "Any time you get the opposition four down early on then you're massively ahead in the game so that helps -- especially when you're captain for the first time. "Not every game of cricket goes that smoothly for us." England made a rousing start with the ball in hand on a sunny afternoon as Mahmood trapped Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq leg-before with the first delivery of the match. Two balls later, Mahmood picked up his second wicket when Pakistan skipper Babar Azam -- the top-ranked ODI batsman -- departed for a duck after edging to Crawley at second slip. Mohammad Rizwan was next to be dismissed for 13 before Mahmood trapped Saud Shakeel in front of the stumps to leave Pakistan teetering at 26-4. Opener Fakhar Zaman, who was making a return to the ground where he made a fifty in Pakistan's 2017 Champions Trophy semi-final win over England, offered stiff resistance with Sohaib Maqsood as they added 53 runs for the fifth wicket. The partnership, however, ended with a farcical run out when Fakhar called Maqsood for a single and then left him stranded as James Vince flicked the bails. Pakistan's hopes of posting a competitive total ended with Zaman (47) miscuing a square-cut straight to point off leg-spinner Matt Parkinson. "To be honest we were a bit loose with the bat, and that's why we didn't get a big total," Azam said. "I don't think we misread the conditions, but credit to their bowlers. The momentum they got, and the fact we couldn't get a big partnership, is why we didn't get a big total." The teams now head to the Lord's for the second ODI on Saturday.

Cricket: New-look England thrash Pakistan in ODI opener

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate. <o:p></o:p>

Former South Africa opener and now the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) outfit Karachi Kings, Herschelle Gibbs has weighed his opinion on the matter as he said that Babar has the potential to replicate what Virat Kohli has done for India and in franchise cricket.<o:p></o:p>

Gibbs opined that Babar, for him, is in the top three batsmen in the world and has the hunger to become better each day.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-couldnt-believe-them-joe-root-reacts-to-ollie-robinsons-racist-sexist-historical-tweets-389926" hreflang="en">Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets</a>

“For me, he is in the top three batsmen in the world, across formats. He is a fantastic player, he knows his game and is hungry to score runs. It is always a sign that they want to become greater and better. If you look at Virat Kohli, Babar Azam is younger than him. There's nothing stopping Babar Azam from achieving what Kohli has achieved in the next decade or so,” Gibbs told Dawn News. <o:p></o:p>

“He has all the potential to become one of the greats in the world. He has made a fantastic start to his career and has got the technique to play in all conditions. He can become as good as Virat Kohli if not better,” the former South African cricketer added.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-yuvraj-singh-reveals-why-india-will-have-slight-disadvantage-in-wtc-final-vs-new-zealand-389893" hreflang="en">Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand</a><o:p></o:p>

All eyes will be on Babar when Karachi Kings take the field for PSL 6 in Abu Dhabi in a bid to defend their title. <o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, PSL 2021 is set to resume from June 9 in Abu Dhabi with the final scheduled for June 24. Earlier, the PSL was postponed amid multiple COVID-19 cases within the bio-secure bubble of the tournament. <o:p></o:p>

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate.

There has been a lot of debate around the top three or five batsmen in the world. While the names of Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith continue to be central to the discussions, the rise of Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has brought him into the debate. Former South Africa opener and now the head coach of Pakistan Super League (PSL) outfit Karachi Kings, Herschelle Gibbs has weighed his opinion on the matter as he said that Babar has the potential to replicate what Virat Kohli has done for India and in franchise cricket. Gibbs opined that Babar, for him, is in the top three batsmen in the world and has the hunger to become better each day. ALSO READ: Cricket: 'Couldn’t believe them' - Joe Root reacts to Ollie Robinson’s racist, sexist historical tweets “For me, he is in the top three batsmen in the world, across formats. He is a fantastic player, he knows his game and is hungry to score runs. It is always a sign that they want to become greater and better. If you look at Virat Kohli, Babar Azam is younger than him. There's nothing stopping Babar Azam from achieving what Kohli has achieved in the next decade or so,” Gibbs told Dawn News. “He has all the potential to become one of the greats in the world. He has made a fantastic start to his career and has got the technique to play in all conditions. He can become as good as Virat Kohli if not better,” the former South African cricketer added. ALSO READ: Cricket: Yuvraj Singh reveals why India will have 'slight disadvantage' in WTC Final vs New Zealand All eyes will be on Babar when Karachi Kings take the field for PSL 6 in Abu Dhabi in a bid to defend their title. Meanwhile, PSL 2021 is set to resume from June 9 in Abu Dhabi with the final scheduled for June 24. Earlier, the PSL was postponed amid multiple COVID-19 cases within the bio-secure bubble of the tournament.

Cricket: 'Can become as good as Virat Kohli' - Herschelle Gibbs gives his take on Babar Azam ahead of PSL resumption

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