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No Security Threat Exists For NZ, Pak Have One Of The Best Intelligence Systems: PCB

Mumbai: After New Zealand announced that they’re abandoning their tour of Pakistan following a New Zealand government security alert, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said that New Zealand Cricket unilaterally postponed the series. Also Read: NZ’s 1st Tour Of Pak In 18 Years Abandoned Minutes Before 1st ODI After Security Alert

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan spoke to his New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern and assured him that Pakistan has the best intelligence system in the world and that no security threats exist to the visiting team, but New Zealand Cricket (NZC) still decided to return home after the NZ government security alert.

New Zealand was set to play their first match on Pakistani soil since 2003. The side was scheduled to play the first of three ODIs in Rawalpindi on Friday, before moving to Lahore for the five-match T20I series.

“Earlier today, New Zealand Cricket informed us they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series. Pakistan Cricket Board and Pakistan Government made foolproof security arrangements for all visiting teams. We have assured the New Zealand Cricket of the same. The Pakistan 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,” Pakistan Cricket Board stated in a statement.

“The security officials with the New Zealand team have been satisfied with security arrangements made by the Pakistan Government throughout their stay here,” PCB added.

The PCB is ready to continue with the scheduled matches. “However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed at this last-minute return,” the PCB said.

NZC had said that arrangements were now being made for the team’s departure. Heath Mills, chief executive of the New Zealand Cricket Players Association, echoed the sentiments of NZC chief executive David White.

“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 said.

NZC said it will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.

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