26 Aug 2008

Pakistan 'let down' by Australia, South Africa

6:05 am on 26 August 2008

Pakistan cricket officials say they feel let down by Australia and South Africa after those countries' security fears led to the postponement until 2009 of next month's Champions Trophy.

Pakistan will still host the eight-nation biennial tournament in October next year.

The International Cricket Council was forced to postpone it off just two days after South Africa refused to send their team while New Zealand, Australia, and England were also considering pull-outs over security worries.

Pakistan Cricket Board chief operating officer Shafqat Naghmi says his country feels let down by non-Asian teams.

Naghmi says Australia hasn't toured Pakistan for 10 years and he hopes they'll fulfil their commitment to tour next year.

Australia postponed a tour to Pakistan in March-April this year which then sparked doubts over the Champions Trophy.