In an unexpected turn of events, the entire New Zealand tour of Pakistan has been abandoned as the Blackcaps received a strong security advisory from the New Zealand government just on the day the first ODI was scheduled to be played in Rawalpindi. The New Zealand Cricket said that they were informed of an "escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, and advice from NZC security advisors on the ground" that forced them to take the decision.
However, the PCB made its stand clear that the abandonment was a "unilateral decision" of New Zealand even and reiterated their commitment to providing "foolproof security arrangements" to the Kiwi team.
"Earlier today, the New Zealand cricket board informed us that they had been alerted to some security alert and have unilaterally decided to postpone the series. PCB and Govt of Pakistan made foolproof security arrangements for all visiting teams," the PCB said in a series of tweets.
The start first match between Pakistan and New Zealand which was scheduled to be played on September 17 at the Pindi Stadium first saw a delay in the start as no toss took place at the scheduled time of 02:30 pm IST (02:00 pm PST) and players and support staff were asked to remain in dressing rooms.
The CEO of New Zealand Cricket on his behalf clarified the Kiwi position saying that "I understand this will be a blow for the PCB, who have been wonderful hosts, but player safety is paramount and we believe this is the only responsible option.”
NZC will not comment on the details of the security threat nor the updated arrangements for the departing squad.
New Zealand were in Pakistan for the first time since 2003 and they were scheduled to play three ODIs in Rawalpindi and five T20Is in Gadaffi Stadium Lahore.