Cricket's Champions Trophy faces pull-out threat

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2008

KARACHI (AFP) — Holders Australia and other key nations could pull out of the Champions Trophy after the International Cricket Council decided to go ahead with the tournament in Pakistan, officials said Friday.

The Australian and New Zealand players' associations called on their country's governing bodies not to send teams to Pakistan, while England players will be asked if they want to travel.

The ICC said on Thursday it would appoint a commission to ensure security at the September 11-28 showpiece but it was not enough to quash concerns about the threat of Islamic militant attacks in Pakistan.

"We've gone through this with a fine-tooth comb and we don't think the risk to go to Pakistan is acceptable. I am very hopeful Cricket Australia will make that...