It is really hard to think there aren't other issues involved when they have been to other countries with similar issues and many times haven't even consider security. If Pakistan isn't safe now, then really no time in the last two decades has Sri Lanka been safe. But only once they have not toured. You got to ask why is that the case.
Tell that to the 2001 NZ team.
I like the description of the situation (I mean the words that are used ) tbh !!!
I think that's the point. IIRC two tours ago was hot on the heels of the Afghan war kicking off, and early this year was close to the election. The NZ development is a positive one though - I understood they were being guided by the same security guys as Aus and England. Not sure it that's so, but if it is, and NZ are going, you'd think it makes it more likely Australia and England will too.
Meh, it'll get moved, Pakistan will get shafted again and all will be rosy. Can't see how a global split is in anyone's best interests.
Yeah pretty much what I figure will happen. Too much money involved to risk a split. Countries like Pakistan, with an incompetent board and weak teams, will continue to take it up the backside. Might as well get used to it I suppose.
Sanz – I respect your decision and can understand your reasoning. However, like you pointed out, the situation in Pakistan and Iraq is not the same. There is a full on civil war + insurgency taking place in Iraq. There are terrorist groups in Pakistan, but the level of violence is nowhere close. Also, you as an indidual will not be getting the state-level security that players in Pakistan will get. I will argue that while you may be a specific target in Iraq (as someone who is working for the US army even in civilian capacity might be), the cricket players have never been perceived as targets. My whole point is that Pakistan is safe to tour and the tournament should take place there. Now if individual players want to pull-out, that’s their decision and I will respect it. Let’s play the tournament with those willing to travel to Pakistan is all I’m asking.
Its amazing how some people can manage to come to such a ridiculous conclusion.
Not for me sir. Although, I can understand why you would think so.
With all due respect to your opinions on this i just thought if everyone started to had similar reasoning and the basis you had on the matter than no team would have ever toured pakistan since the start of war in iraq (or afghanistan for that matter).
It has to be based on the report, its a matter of security for the players and nothing goes beyond that.
Are you saying that security can be GAURANTEED in any other country? Even Australia and England may not be able to provide such an assurance. It would be impractical to demand such a guarantee from anyone. Also, from the reports I’ve read, the South African board were supportive of Pakistan, and they got the same security briefings as others.
