‘Such a shame for Pakistan cricket’: Michael Vaughan reacts to New Zealand's call to quit Pakistan tour

In a sensational turn of events, New Zealand, who were in Pakistan to play three ODIs and five T20Is, abandoned their tour hours before the first ODI due to security concerns. New Zealand Cricket Board (NZC) in their statement said that players safety is paramount for them and the tour could not proceed after the alerts of New Zealand security agencies. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) too released a statement and said New Zealand’s decision to quit the series is very disappointing as Pakistan PM Imran Khan had assured foolproof security to the players.

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Meanwhile, the development drew mixed reactions from the cricket fraternity. While several cricketers and experts sided with Pakistan, others backed New Zealand’s decision by saying that players’ safety cannot be compromised. Former England cricketer Michael Vaughan also gave his opinion on the matter and said the abandonment of the series is a big blow to Pakistan. He wished that the security issues can be sorted out quickly and cricket once again returns to Pakistan.

"Such a shame for Pakistan Cricket .. These late call offs will damage the game hugely financially .. Hopefully security issues can be resolved to allow cricket to be played again in Pakistan .. !!" wrote former England captain Michael Vaughan on his twitter handle.

While NZC declined to comment on the nature of the threat, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern told Imran Khan that she has got alerts that players could be attacked outside the stadium. While Khan tried to assure proper security to the players, Ardern said that players’ safety won’t be compromised and she stands by NZC decision to abandon the series.

“When I spoke with the prime minister of Pakistan I conveyed our thanks for taking care of the New Zealand cricket team," Ardern said. "I know how disappointing it will be for everyone that the game hasn’t gone ahead, but we totally support the decision that’s been made. Player safety has to be paramount.”

Meanwhile, the recent developments have put England’s tour of Pakistan in doubt as well. England men’s and women’s teams are set to visit Pakistan in October for a limited-overs series. However, since NZC and ECB use the same security agencies, the tour is in jeopardy.