South Africa will not go to Pakistan - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

South Africa will not go to Pakistan

Cricket South Africa have announced they will not send their national team to the Champions Trophy if it is held in Pakistan.

CSA met with the International Cricket Council's task force on Friday to discuss fears over security in Pakistan, following a spate of recent bombings there.

But despite assurances from the ICC task force that security measures would be in place, CSA president Norman Arendse has now confirmed the Proteas will not be travelling to the Asian country next month.

"After extensive discussions and a frank exchange of views, the board resolved not to send our team at this time to Pakistan to participate in the ICC Champions Trophy," Arendse said in a statement.

The ICC task force has travelled to Australia, New Zealand and England in recent weeks to discuss security issues with the national cricketing bodies.

ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat met with CSA officials, but his presentation failed to convince Arendse.

"We respect the right of the Pakistan Cricket Board to stage the tournament, and we would urge the ICC to reschedule the tournament as soon as possible," he added.

South African Cricketers' Association chief Tony Irish backed CSA's decision, insisting player safety is paramount.

"This was a difficult decision, but it was the right one. There is nothing more important than the safety of our national team," said Irish.

"We appreciate all the efforts of the ICC task team, the Pakistan Cricket Board, the Pakistan authorities and the security consultants. The players are naturally disappointed for their fans and the people of Pakistan that they will not have a chance to see them in action in that country in September."

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