ICC Trophy could be set for boycott

CricketSecurity concerns could see a boycott of the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan by Australia, New Zealand and England.

The International Cricket Council confirmed earlier this week that the event in September would not be moved and would still be hosted by Pakistan, despite lingering fears over players' safety.

However, holders Australia, New Zealand and England have voiced their concerns and all may still pull out of the competition.

"The risks are too great for us to recommend our players go there," said Paul Marsh of the Australian Cricketers' Association.

"We would expect Cricket Australia to adopt the same position."

New Zealand Cricket Players' Association chief Mills had earlier suggested a boycott and now Sean Morris, the chief executive of the Professional Cricketers' Association in England, has also iterated the same sentiment.

"We've still got some very serious concerns, despite the fact that the Pakistan Cricket Board have made every effort they can to try to make it as safe as possible," he said.

"But, unfortunately, in that part of the world there are some matters that are beyond anyone's control.

"I think one thing that the England and Wales Cricket Board has said - and something we are very well aligned on - is the one thing you are never going to compromise on is security.

"You may find a world-class event that doesn't feature a large number of world-class players. That would be a real shame for cricket."


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