ECB apoligises to PCB for cancelling Pakistan tour, promises to visit the country next year

Ian Watmore, England Cricket Board (ECB) chairman has apologized to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for not travelling to the country for its scheduled two T20Is. ECB recently called off their Pakistan tour citing security concerns.

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England’s men’s and women’s teams were due to play two matches in Pakistan on October 13 and 14. However, with New Zealand cancelling the tour in the 11th hour, England too withdrew from the series considering the security of the players and their wellbeing.

In an interview with the Daily Telegraph, Watmore apologised to PCB over the recent development. "I'm very sorry to anyone who feels hurt or let down by our decision, particularly in Pakistan," Watmore said. "The decision the board made was an extremely difficult one.

"I won't go into details, but we received advice on security and player welfare and took the decision we made. We had to make it quickly because of the short term to the World Cup and the New Zealand exodus from Pakistan. They were all factors, but the primary consideration was the welfare of the players."

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If England would have travelled to Pakistan, it would have been the first for their men’s team since 2005-06 and the first instance of England women travelling to the country. After completing the two T20Is, the women's team were also set to play three ODIs. Watmore further promised to rebuild its relationship with Pakistan and play the series in 2022.

"We need to rebuild our relationship with Pakistan and will refocus on going there in 2022. This wasn't the right time. Obviously, we're extremely grateful to Pakistan coming here last year, and we will do everything we can to deliver the scheduled tour next year."