The rising tensions in the Middle East are now clearly affecting cricket. The second unofficial ODI between the Pakistan Shaheens and the England Lions in Abu Dhabi has been abruptly cancelled.
After the situation worsened, both boards took this decision, keeping in mind the safety of the players.
Match cancelled in Abu Dhabi, players advised to stay in hotels
The match was scheduled to be played on Sunday, but was postponed due to the tense security situation in the region. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) clearly stated, “The safety and security of our teams and staff is our top priority.”
The board further stated, “Tomorrow’s second 50-over game between the England Men’s Lions and Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi will no longer go ahead, and we are delaying the departure of England Women for their proposed trip to Abu Dhabi next week.”
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also confirmed the cancellation of the match. The PCB said in a statement, “There will be no practice sessions as well, and the team has been advised to remain indoors,” adding that the safety of the players and support staff is paramount.
The teams have been asked to remain indoors as a precautionary measure. The PCB stated that it is in constant contact with the ECB and monitoring the situation.
Airspace closed, flights also affected
The situation escalated following the military strikes on Iran by the US and Israel on February 28. In response, Iran launched missile attacks in several parts of the Gulf region, prompting several countries to close or restrict their airspace.
Explosions were heard in cities like Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Bahrain. Dubai International Airport has suspended its services indefinitely due to airspace restrictions. Many international airlines have been affected.
Air India also issued a statement saying it is canceling all flights to Abu Dhabi, Dammam, Doha, Dubai, Jeddah, Muscat, Riyadh, and Tel Aviv until further notice.
The PCB has stated that a decision on the remaining matches will be made once Middle East airspace reopens.
The board will also decide whether to recall the Shaheen team to Pakistan or continue the series, depending on the security situation. Currently, the movement of players is being strictly monitored.
