June 21, 2008	Saturday	Jamadi-us-Sani 16, 1429

KARACHI, June 20: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday said if any team or player has any reservation about the security aspect of the Champions Trophy being held in Pakistan, the governing body is ready to deal with the issue.

”We will deal with any team’s concern and reservations when the need arises (but) let’s not answer hypothetical questions at this stage,” an ICC official said when asked about media reports that players from Australia and New Zealand had reservations about playing in Pakistan.

ICC Communication Manager Samiul-Hasan said security issue was a global problem and anything can happen anywhere. “I don’t know which countries have shown reservations but from what we have seen today, the situation here is quite encouraging,” he said.

He said the ICC would be monitoring the Asia Cup, which is a multi-nation event, and a successful organisation would help Pakistan’s case ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. “Both ICC and PCB have set high standards for the tournament and we will ensure the event fits those standards,” said Sami.

ICC President Ray Mali has thrown his weight behind Pakistan holding the Champions Trophy from September 11, saying the country would prove a great host for a great tournament.

But Dave Richardson, acting CEO of the ICC, was more cautious with his words. “We cannot say with absolute certainty the event is going to be held in Pakistan as you know that the security situation is very fluid,” he said. “We have put into place a process to monitor the security position on a daily basis,” Richardson said.

Sami also said that both the PCB and ICC would monitor the security situation till the end of the tournament. “ICC also gives importance to safety and security provided to players, officials, media persons and the spectators.”

He disclosed that the ICC meetings with PCB were very productive, encouraging and positive. “We can see the enthusiasm to host a successful ICC tournament in PCB’s efforts,” he added. — Agencies