PCB feels "let down" by Proteas, Aussies for CT delayed
25 Aug 2008, 1436 Hrs

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Karachi, Aug 25 (ANI): Following the postponement of the Champions Trophy, the PCB today said that it felt "let down" by South Africa and Australia, in particular, after their players' security fears (while playing in Pakistan) led to the postponement of the tournament until 2009.

The eight-nation tournament was scheduled to be played in Pakistan from September 11-28, but after Australians cited security threats in the backdrop of repeated bombings, the ICC yesterday postponed it to next year.

A senior PCB official said that Australia, who postponed a tour to Pakistan in March-April this year, fulfill their commitment to tour next year.

"Australia have a commitment of playing five one-day internationals in April next year so we hope by then their fears are removed and they play in our country," the Dawn quoted PCB chief operating officer Shafqat Naghmi as saying.

Naghmi said the country felt let down by the teams. "We are definitely disappointed by Australia because they have not toured us for 10 years," Naghmi said and added that he was also surprised by South Africa's sudden boycott.

Once major countries pulled out, there was no point in holding the event, he added. (ANI)