ICC delays call on Champions Trophy venue

Dubai: Uncertainty over Pakistan's status as the host of September's Champions Trophy continued on Sunday with the sharply divided ICC referring the issue to its Board which will take a decision on the matter during the course of the week.

International Cricket Council security consultants on Sunday briefed eight participating nations as well as players' representatives on the security arrangements and also on the arrangements made by the Pakistan Cricket Board during the recently-concluded Asia Cup.

"While there was recognition the PCB had gone to great lengths to provide a high level of security during the Asia Cup and would do so again during the ICC Champions Trophy, concerns were expressed about the potential for threats beyond the PCB's control.

"These concerns will now be taken to the ICC Board during the course of this week with the Board then arriving at a definitive decision on the location of this year's ICC Champions Trophy," the ICC said in a statement.

The ICC also said "until or unless the Board decides otherwise, the tournament will proceed in Pakistan".

Many players, particularly Australians, have questioned the logic to hold the event in Pakistan after a series of suicide bomb attacks rocked the nation recently.

Australia had also postponed their tour to Pakistan because of the security fears.

PCB has been arguing that sports persons have never been target of terrorism and considering the successful organisation of the Asia Cup, the event should not be relocated.

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