"Disappointed with England, pulling out of their commitment"
Pakistani celebrities have expressed their disappointment over England’s cricket tour cancellation.
The England men and women cricket teams were due to play in Pakistan.
However, both tours were called off following security concerns over a potential attack outside Rawalpindi Stadium.
The Pakistani men’s cricket team was due to play England in two T20 international matches on Wednesday, October 13, 2021, and Thursday, October 14, 2021.
Meanwhile, the women’s teams were set to play each other for further internationals between Sunday, October 17, 2021, and Thursday, October 21, 2021.
The English Cricket Board (ECB) issued a lengthy statement regarding the cancellation:
“We understand that this decision will be a significant disappointment to the PCB [Pakistan Cricket Board], who have worked tirelessly to host the return of international cricket in their country.
“Their support of English and Welsh cricket over the last two summers has been a huge demonstration of friendship.
“We are sincerely sorry for the impact this will have on cricket in Pakistan and emphasise an ongoing commitment to our main touring plans there for 2022.”
Many were disappointed with the news but particularly chairman of the PCB and former international batsman, Ramiz Raja who tweeted:
“Disappointed with England, pulling out of their commitment and failing a member of their Cricket fraternity when it needed it most.
“Survive we will inshallah.
“A wake-up call for Pakistan team to become the best team in the world for teams to line up to play them without making excuses.”
Other Pakistani figures have also now shared how they feel about the announcement online.
Cricketer Shoaib Malik tweeted: “Sad news for Pakistan cricket, just stay strong…
“We will be back stronger, inshallah!”
Actor Adnan Siddiqui said: “Highly unprofessional behaviour by NZ & UK cricket teams.
“We don’t have to be subservient to them. Shun #colonialhangover.”
Actress Saba Qamar added:
“Extremely sad for the cricket fans in Pakistan.”
“100% behind @TheRealPCB In sha Allah we will rise again.”
Jamaican cricketer Chris Gayle also supported Pakistan and tweeted:
“I’m going to Pakistan tomorrow, who coming with me?”
His tweet attracted a lot of attention among other celebrities.
This included Pakistani singer Asim Azhar who replied:
“Welcome @henrygayle!!! Let us treat you with some good biryani, amazing music & safety like no other.”
The news comes just days after New Zealand’s men’s team also pulled out of its limited-overs tour of Pakistan over fears of an attack outside the playing grounds.
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