Pakistan’s first warm-up match ahead of the ODI World Cup in arch-rivalIndia will be held behind closed doors due to security issues, the hostssaid on Monday.
India and Pakistan are bitter adversaries and only play cricket againsteach other in international tournaments due to longstanding politicaltensions.
Babar Azam’s team will take on New Zealand on Friday in the south Indiancity of Hyderabad, where large crowds are expected to gather for a Hindufestival.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said spectators will notbe allowed inside the stadium and the match will “take place behind closeddoors as per the advice of the local security agencies”.
The match “coincides with festivals on the day and large gatherings areexpected around the city,” the BCCI said in a statement, adding ticketholders will be refunded.
Read Top Stories
The 50-over showpiece tournament will begin on October 5 in Ahmedabad, withthe city also hosting the hotly anticipated clash between India andPakistan on October 14.
Pakistan had agreed to visit India after they agreed to jointly host therecently concluded Asia Cup, allowing India to play its matches in SriLanka. -APP/AFP