August 23, 2008	Saturday	Sha'aban 20, 1429

KARACHI, Aug 22: Pakistan opener Salman Butt on Friday slammed the teams who have reservations over playing in his country in the Champions Trophy, saying that the security bogey has been a norm for these sides whenever a tour to Pakistan comes up.

“Reservations by these teams were a norm whenever a tour to Pakistan approaches. This is not good for our cricket because the rest of the teams are ready to play in Pakistan,” said Salman.

The stylish left-handed batsman added that the uncertainty over whether Pakistan would host the Champions Trophy next month has affected the players in their preparations for the eight-nation tournament.

“Look, this uncertainty is affecting the players, especially their preparations for the tournament. Everyone wants to plan ahead for a big tournament. We are unable to do that, not knowing where it will be held,” he stated.

Meanwhile, former Test captain Zaheer Abbas, on the other hand, blamed the PCB for the current situation.

“I don’t think the resignation of the PCB chairman (Dr Nasim Ashraf) at this stage has helped. And also the ad hocism prevailing in the board sends off negative signals to other countries. I think it is going to be very difficult for the ICC to keep the tournament in Pakistan,” he said.—Agencies