First ODI between Pakistan, New Zealand cancelled amid security threat

Rawalpindi: The first One-Day International (ODI) of three-match series between Pakistan and New Zealand has been cancelled that was slated to begin at 2:30 pm.

Reportedly, all the cricketers are directed to remain still in their granted rooms. However, the cricket ground will remain empty, with no ground support staff or broadcast crew. Spectators haven’t been allowed to go inside the stadium as well.

New Zealand were set to play three ODIs and five T20Is across Rawalpindi and Lahore as part of their tour of Pakistan.

Following the issue, the Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed will also hold a press conference at 4:00 pm.

In a series of tweets, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on its official twitter handle wrote, “Earlier today, the New Zealand cricket board informed us that they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series”.

It further added, PCB and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams”.

Earlier today, the New Zealand cricket board informed us that they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series.

PCB and Govt of Pakistan made fool proof security arrangements for all visiting teams. 1/4

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 17, 2021

PCB statement

More details ⬇️ https://t.co/ni0G7FtwfH

— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) September 17, 2021

The three-match ODI series was to be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and Kiwis toured Pakistan for the first time in 18 years.

It is pertinent to mention here that New Zealand last toured Pakistan in November 2003 when they played five ODIs.

Since 2003 ODI series, Pakistan have thrice hosted New Zealand for ODIs in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with the Kiwis winning the 2019-10 and 2014-15 series.