PCB hails ICC decision but seeks Indian Govt assurance

KARACHI: Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PBC) Shaharyar Khan welcomed the decision, announced by the International Cricket Council (ICC), to relocate the ICC World Twenty20 India 2016 Super-10 Group-2 match between India and Pakistan from Dharamsala to Kolkata.

“We welcome the decision for moving the match from Dharamsala to Kolkata. There were pressure on us and there was a public opinion to ask ICC to shift the match from Dharamsala. So, it is a welcome step by ICC and BCCI,” PCB Chief Shaharyar Khan said in a press briefing in Karachi.

However, Shaharyar added both men and women teams´ departure for India has been delayed and the teams will not be sent unless security of players is completely assured.

“The PCB has also today conveyed to ICC and BCCI that our government is expecting an assurance to Pakistan against specific threats to the Pakistan team from various political parties and groups during the tour. Pending this assurance and in accordance with the recommendation by the Security delegation, the PCB has decided to defer the departure of Pakistan men and women teams to India,” he added.

Earlier, announcing the decision, ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said: “The decision has been taken following consultation with the BCCI, the relevant state associations, the ICC and BCCI security consultant and other relevant authorities.

“The decision to relocate the match has been made for security reasons. The concerns initially arose following alleged public comments recently reported by the Chief Minister of Hamachal Pradesh, warning of demonstrations and attempts to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the match.

“Our concerns relate both to uncertainty as to the level of those threats, as well as the level of commitment to implement any security plan developed to mitigate such threats.

“The decision was not taken lightly," Richardson said. "The ICC and the BCCI understand the disappointment that is likely to be felt by many over the decision to move the match. But the safety and security of the event is of paramount importance to the ICC and we have taken into consideration the concerns shared with us by our security advisors as well as the Pakistan Cricket Board.

“As far as those who have purchased tickets online for the match, they will be offered the choice of a full refund or the opportunity to exchange their tickets for ones for the Kolkata match.

“Finally, I would like to confirm that the ICC has been assured by all relevant state authorities that all adequate security measures are in place and will be implemented to ensure that the event is staged in a safe and secure environment for all stakeholders.”