No decision yet on NZ tour to Pakistan

New Zealand Cricket has yet to make a final decision on the future of its proposed tour to Pakistan later this year.

NZC Chief Executive Justin Vaughan said today that following the shocking attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore yesterday, it appeared unlikely the tour would proceed in Pakistan as planned.

“Given the tragic events of yesterday and the comments from the ICC, staging our tour in Pakistan in November-December would appear very unlikely, but there is no final decision as yet. We will discuss the security issue with the Pakistan Cricket Board at the next ICC meeting, and we are likely to look at options such as the use of neutral venues.

“Player safety and security is of paramount importance," Vaughan said. "We will work closely with the New Zealand Cricket Players Association as we work through arrangements."

Vaughan said the attack in Lahore had come as a shock to the cricket community in New Zealand and worldwide.

“This was a very sad day for cricket and for Pakistan. Our thoughts go out to Sri Lankan and Pakistan Cricket, and to the families of those killed in the attack.”