ICC hires S. African firm to assess security in Pak ahead of Champions Trophy
30 Jun 2008, 1028 Hrs

Add comment          Mail          Print          Write to Editor

Karachi, June 30 (ANI): Amid security apprehension expressed by a couple of senior Aussie cricketers ahead of Champions Trophy tourney in Pakistan (in September), the ICC has reportedly hired a South African security consultant firm "Nicholls Steyn and Associates" to make a security assessment in the host country.

The security firm is likely to submit its final report within a fortnight after the Asia Cup, and on the basis of this report a final decision to award the Champions Trophy (to Pakistan) would be taken, reported the Dawn.

According to the paper, the ICC will not solely rely on the report of security expert Reg Dickason, recruited jointly by Cricket Australia (CA), New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), on hosting Champions Trophy.

Even as Dickason is believed to have left Karachi for West Indies after his 24-hour stay in the city, the South African firm's three security experts - Faisul Nagel (Head, Sports Security Division), Bruce Spargo and Steve Stephenson (Stadium Security Consultants) - are in Pakistan to oversee the security arrangements.

The ICC consultants are likely to remain in Pakistan till the Asia Cup is over. They have finished their assessment tour of Lahore and Rawalpindi.

On Sunday, they preferred to remain to themselves for their work rather than having PCB officials with them. Having provided protective services to the highest level of clientele in a variety of countries, the South Africa-based company's co-owner Robert (Bob) Nichollas is also set to visit Pakistan next week, added the paper. (ANI)