Pakistan and Zimbabwe have decided to put on hold their limited-overs series that was to be played from August 17 to September 17 in Zimbabwe. Although no definite reason has been identified for the postponement of the series, a likely one is that Pakistan did not want to jeopardise their qualification for the 2017 Champions Trophy. A PCB official told ESPNcricinfo the series would not go ahead as scheduled. “The decision is taken unanimously and in a cordial manner,” the official said. “Both boards now will look for another window other than August-September this year.” Pakistan had initially agreed to play a limited-overs series in Zimbabwe this year during the only available window, in August. This was intended to reciprocate Zimbabwe’s tour of Pakistan in May which helped Pakistan host their first international series in the country in seven years. Pakistan’s decision to withdraw from playing in Zimbabwe will further tarnish its image among other cricket playing nations. While pursuing its self-interest, Pakistan will lose credibility. When Pakistan was in need of improving its ranking, it proposed a series which Zimbabwe accepted. Now, when Pakistan has secured a place, it has postponed the series. Is this the way to deal with a country that took the ‘risk’ of coming to Pakistan to play? This is a disgraceful tactic on the part of the PCB. Before the Sri Lanka ODIs, West Indies were already perched at eighth position and could have denied participating in the tri-series in Zimbabwe but they agreed to do so in order to give Pakistan a fair chance of qualifying for the Champions Trophy, even if it meant risking their own exit. Now that Pakistan has reached number eight position by beating Sri Lanka, the PCB has backtracked on its commitment to Zimbabwe, who risked their players’ life while touring Pakistan. It is a shameful act and the PCB should reconsider this decision. The PCB should tour Zimbabwe and show some sportsmanship. There should not be a fear of losing a place in the bigger international event. If Pakistan loses the series in Zimbabwe, it would simply mean that it did not deserve to play in the Champions Trophy. If, however, Pakistan wins, our players can proudly and confidently play against other teams. Be brave and prove yourself in every competition, come what may.
pk.shafaqna.com
Putting Zimbabwe tour on hold: A disgraceful tactics by PCB
