The controversy over England Cricket Board (ECB) cancelling the tour of Pakistan does not seem to be cooling down. After the cancellation of the Pakistan tour, ECB has been under fire from many PCB officials and former players. To ease out tensions between the two boards, ECB chief Ian Whatmore has issued an apology to PCB and Pakistan fans. The chief has also promised that England will have a proper tour of Pakistan next year.
England announced the cancellation of the tour right after New Zealand called off their tour just before the first match of the series. Pakistan Information and Broadcast minister Fawad Chaudhary has welcomed ECB’s decision and is thankful for the cricketing stars and all those who are contributing to strengthen Pakistan cricket.
Whatmore’s apology to the fans
“I’m very sorry to anyone who feels hurt or let down by our decision, particularly in Pakistan. The decision the board made was an extremely difficult one and the board made it with the primary consideration being the welfare and mental health of our players and staff. We’ve recommitted to a proper tour, a scheduled tour, of Pakistan next year and will get on with planning that. We will have longer to plan that trip,” Whatmore told Daily Mail.
England was to play T20Is in Pakistan
England was scheduled to play two T20Is against Pakistan. However, citing player's mental health and wellness, ECB cancelled the Pakistan tour. The controversial led to a severe backlash as PCB made all the necessary preparations for the touring side. Many Pakistan players blamed IPL as the main reason behind cancellations.
