IMPACT OF CORONAVIRUS

Pakistan's tour of Netherlands postponed indefinitely

by Cricbuzz Staff • Last updated on Wed, Apr 22, 2020, 10:25 PM

Pakistan were scheduled to play three One-Day Internationals against the Dutch side in Amstelveen on 4, 7 and 9 July © Getty

Pakistan's forthcoming tour of Netherlands stands postponed indefinitely after the boards of both countries decided to mutually call off the series due to the Coronavirus threat. The board's decisions come in the wake of the Dutch government banning all sports and cultural events in the country until September 1.

The Netherlands is among the European countries seriously afflicted by the pandemic, with the death toll passing 4000 this week. The decision to ban the series was an eventuality the Koninklijke Nederlandse Cricket Bond (KNCB) had come to terms with for sometime.

"It is extremely disappointing that we won't be able to host any international cricket in the Netherlands this summer. However, the health and safety of the players, staff and fans is our main priority, and in that light the ban on events by the Dutch government is understandable," Betty Timmier, KNCB chief, said.

"We truly hope that by next season the situation is under control again, so we can host the Super League series against England, Ireland and the West Indies as planned. We would love to welcome back all cricket fans on our grounds in the summer of 2021."

Pakistan were scheduled to play three One-Day Internationals against the Dutch side in Amstelveen on 4, 7 and 9 July before proceeding to Ireland for two T20Is and then to England to begin their three-match Test series on July 30 at Lord's. Officials in PCB as well as ECB will continue to monitor the developing situation in England before a decision on that is eventually made. Professional cricket in England has been suspended for now until May 28.

"It is sad that we have to postpone our July tour to the Netherlands, but in the prevailing circumstances, this is absolutely the right thing to do as human lives are far more precious and valuable than a cricket match or an event," PCB Chief Wasim Khan said.

"Netherlands has been severely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and we offer our heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their lives. Like any other country, the PCB stands firmly with the KNCB and hope they will be able to overcome this crisis. The Pakistan national cricket teams have always enjoyed touring the Netherlands and as soon as things return to normal, the PCB will engage with the KNCB to reschedule the tour so that we can fulfil our obligation.

"The Pakistan national men's cricket team's tours to Ireland, for two Twenty20 Internationals, and England, for three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals, are on track at this stage. We are keeping a watching brief and are in contact with our counterparts in Dublin and London, respectively. As is always the case, the PCB will be happy to be guided by the hosts on the upcoming tours but without compromising on the health and safety of its players and team support personnel."

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Pakistan's tour of Netherlands postponed indefinitely

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