ICC CHAMPIONS TROPHY POSTPONED FOR OCTOBER 2009

Yes that's correct, another year we have to wait. Another addition to the blockbuster calendar of 2009.
It was confirmed today, after South Africa pulled out on Saturday, that Australia, New Zealand, England and The West Indies were to pull out the tournament. That of course leaves no point in the tournament occuring, and now the plan is to postpone the event for 2009, October being the time frame.

Yes, I am sure we all expected this, but if there's someone to blame, it's not the Pakistan cricket board, not the fans in Pakistan, not the players, but the ICC!
Every nation has its problems, sometimes these problems only occur at the least expected times, but logic is when there is an apparent threat, and safety measures have to be taken to such an extreme for a sporting event, there is no point going ahead with such risks.
I am quite sure there is a high degree of over-hyped media regarding the issues within Pakistan, and especially regarding the political changes over the last few weeks, but we knew things were not stable and the decision is wise.

It is very unfortunate, and I for one feel quite upset for cricket enthusiasts living in Pakistan, and the PCB did all they could, but peace of mind just couldn't be found.
I don't think the players from the concerned teams are too blame at all. I think it would be hard to ease your mind knowing anything could happen on or off the field and put your life at risk.

The ICC could have taken quicker action, to finalise a better venue at this point in time, but again, slow thinking, sensitivity issues and importantly not thinking about the supporters.
Rescheduling involves alot. Venue inspection, ticket sales, travel packages, transport infrustructure, ground management, tour safety, merchandise shipments...it is a serious and important matter not to be rushed. Therefore moving it no another country would have been a mess up!
Time was the issue here, it ran out, and despite the 'writing on the wall', the ICC didn't handle the concerns in due course and well, we will have to wait another year.

Pakistan is still expected to host the event, so I hope all supporters of the game, especially those in Pakistan, will get to see their heroes or teams in action next year, and that people can travel to Pakistan to enjoy the cricket and have few, if possible no concerns.

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