19 April,2009 03:37 PM IST | | PTI
Pakistan Sports Minister Pir Aftab Shah Jillani has asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to review its decision to shift the 2011 World Cup matches from the country due to security reasons.
Describing the ICC's decision as a big blow to Pakistan cricket, he said it was taken in utter haste as there was still two years left for the tournament.
Jillani said the government was even willing to use the military to provide security and protection for the World Cup matches in Pakistan.
"That was an option available to us but I think the ICC has acted in haste and must reconsider its decision as this could have far ranging effects on Pakistan and its cricket set-up," Jillani, a former first class player said here.
ALSO READ
Gillespie, Kirsten want Masood and Babar to continue as Pakistan captains
James Anderson to continue as England’s fast-bowling mentor for PAK, NZ tours
Kamran Akmal slams Pakistan team management for showing lack of faith in spinner
"It is matter of happiness for me": Ajmal on dismissing Sachin Tendulkar
Pakistan cricket just died a thousand deaths
Pakistan was scheduled to host 14 matches, including a semi-final, of the 2011 World Cup to be held in the sub-continent.
He also criticised the nation's Cricket Board (PCB) for failing to convince the ICC and its member countries to keep the World Cup matches in Pakistan.
"They (PCB) could have done more then they did. I don't think they did their homework well enough to contest this move to shift the World Cup matches from Pakistan," Jillani said.
Meanwhile, Pakistan cricket team captain Younis Khan, who is in Dubai for the one-day series against Australia, said he was extremely disappointed and sad at the ICC's decision to shift the megaevent out of Pakistan.
"It is very disappointing but at this moment I don't want to make anymore comments on it and my focus right now is to motivate the team to do well in the series against Australia," Younis said.
Pakistan coach Intikhab Alam also joined forces and said the ICC's decision had left the players in a state of utter depression.
"The news took all the players by surprise and the atmosphere was pretty gloomy after the news came through.
"But after an off-day today, we have told the players to start concentrating on the matches against Australia as our immediate aim is to win the series," Alam said.
