Pakistan’s tour of Netherlands has been postponed indefinitely due to coronavirus pandemic. Pakistan was due to travel in July for three One-Day Internationals. All the three ODI was to be played at Amstelveen on 4, 7 and 9 July.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Koninklijke Nederlandse postponed the tour Cricket Bond (KNCB) after the Dutch government banned all the sports and cultural events until September 1.
Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Executive said, “It is sad that we have to postpone our July tour to the Netherlands, but in the prevailing circumstances, this is absolutely the right thing to do as human lives are far more precious and valuable than a cricket match or an event.”
“Netherlands has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and we offer our heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost their lives. Like any other country, the PCB stands firmly with the KNCB and hope they will be able to overcome this crisis,” he added.
“The Pakistan national cricket teams have always enjoyed touring the Netherlands and as soon as things return to normal, the PCB will engage with the KNCB to reschedule the tour so that we can fulfil our obligation,” he said.
He further said, “The Pakistan national men’s cricket team’s tours to Ireland, for two Twenty20 Internationals, and England, for three Tests and three Twenty20 Internationals, are on track at this stage. We are keeping a watching brief and are in contact with our counterparts in Dublin and London, respectively. As is always the case, the PCB will be happy to be guided by the hosts on the upcoming tours but without compromising on the health and safety of its players and team support personnel.”
KNCB Chair Betty Timber added, “It is extremely disappointing that we won’t be able to host any international cricket in the Netherlands this summer. However, the health and safety of the players, staff and fans is our main priority, and in that light the ban on events by the Dutch government is understandable.”
“We truly hope that by next season the situation is under control again, so we can host the Super League series against England, Ireland and the West Indies as planned. We would love to welcome back all cricket fans on our grounds in the summer of 2021,” he added.
