Pak., Kiwis discuss possibility of one-day series

DUBAI, SEPT. 16. The Cricket Boards of Pakistan and New Zealand are discussing the possibility of playing an extended one-day international series of seven matches in Pakistan to compensate for the financial losses due to the cancellation of their planned Test and one-day series, a newspaper report said on Sunday.The Kiwis' tour to Pakistan was cancelled citing security reasons after the terror strikes in the U.S. on Tuesday. The Kiwis were to play three Tests and as many limited overs games.

According to Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) marketing manager Zahid Bashir, ``both the PCB and the New Zealand Cricket Board are discussing the possibility of a short tour to play seven-limited overs games to avoid financial losses of about $3.5 million to the PCB.'' He told Khaleej Times that the talks between the two boards were at an advanced stage and a decision was expected in a week or 10 days.

``If indeed the idea goes through and we host New Zealand for a one-day series, there won't be any big financial repercussions for the PCB as the minimum financial guarantees from all parties concerned will stand,'' Mr Bashir said.

He added, ``the circumstances surrounding the cancellation were beyond anybody's control. But at the same time, after the loss of the India series, the idea of losing a further $3.5 million and television rights did not look good for the board's account books.''

India was to undertake a tour of Pakistan in December last year to play Test matches and one-day internationals. However, the government did not permit the team to visit Pakistan, saying there was no point in having sporting links with Pakistan as long as Islamabad encouraged terrorism on Indian soil.

- UNI

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