23 Aug 2008

Pakistan angered by Champions Trophy withdrawl

1:41 pm on 23 August 2008

Pakistan's cricket authorities have reacted with anger to South Africa's withdrawl from next month's Champions Trophy.

The Proteas pre-empted tomorrow's emergency talks by cricket's governing body with the announcement the ICC task force had failed to offer sufficient assurances about their players' safety in a country blighted by extremist violence.

Pakistan Cricket Board spokesman Mansoor Suhail says Cricket South Africa should have waited until tomorrow's ICC board teleconference and its a decision in haste.

New Zealand, Australia and England could follow South Africa's lead.

The ICC board will decide whether to postpone or relocate the event, or to invite replacement countries.