March 10, 2007	Saturday	Safar 20, 1428

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LAHORE, March 9: South Africa will not take part in the proposed three-nation cricket tournament, which is to be held in Abu Dhabi in May, Dawn learnt on Friday.

Besides South Africa, the two other countries are Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

But on Friday, South Africa conveyed its decision to the Abu Dhabi Cricket Association, stating they are unable to feature in the competition.

Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka had already confirmed their participation to the organisers and after getting the confirmation of South Africa, the official announcement was to be made.

The PCB had given the green signal to the organisers, because after the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies (March 13 to April 28) the Pakistan team is free till the first Twenty-20 World Cup in South Africa in September.

But South Africa have to play an away home series against Zimbabwe in August prior to host the first Twenty-20 World Cup.

Sources told Dawn the Proteas were more interested in rest after the World Cup, therefore, they preferred to remain away from the contest.

There are also reports, the organisers could not strike a hefty deal with any TV Channel to meet all the demands of the South Africa.

However, the organisers are still working to hold the event possible and have the option to turn it into two-nation competition (Pakistan and Sri Lanka).