New Zealand skipper, Kane Williamson has finally spoken out over the cancellation of his team’s visit to Pakistan the previous month. The NZ were scheduled to play 5 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) and 3 One-Day Internationals (ODIs) in the Asian country before the 2021 T20 World Cup. The players had even arrived in Pakistan. Unfortunately, only hours before the first match, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) called off the matches due to security threats. Lets look at What Williamson Opens On Cancellation Of NZ Tour Of PAK
Citing security concerns, the New Zealand government probably asked the national board to withdraw the group back. The cancellation of the series, which had been eagerly anticipated, left the Pakistan cricket community disappointed. Prominent figures such as Mohammad Hafeez and Shoaib Akhtar also slammed the Kiwis team. When questioned about the incident, Williamson said it was disappointing since the entire squad was hoping to play games in Pakistan.
Pakistan has been outstanding in the first couple of games of this tournament: Williamson
“That was obviously a very unfortunate, disappointing situation for Pakistani cricket fans and the cricketers, a decision that was outside of the players’ control. But all the guys were there looking forward to that series to start, and unfortunately, it didn’t happen. So it was very disappointing for all involved,” the Blackcaps captain said.
Williamson made the remarks during his team’s five-wicket loss to Pakistan in the 2021 T20 World Cup. The New Zealand captain was also questioned if Pakistani players or spectators were disrespectful to his squad. In return, the top scorer praised their opponents for their positive attitude.
Williamson Opens On Cancellation Of NZ Tour Of PAK
“No, they played in the right spirit, I believe, and a great spirit. They’re a very competitive, proud cricketing nation, and they showed that tonight. They’ve been outstanding in the first couple of games of this tournament. I’m sure they’ll be very, very competitive throughout the back end as well. Their hopes are high, no doubt,” added Williamson.
However, Pakistan has been dominating the T20 World Cup this year. Earlier defeating New Zealand, the Men in Green overcame India by ten wickets, ending a long losing record versus their arch-rivals in World Cup tournaments. Considering Scotland, Namibia, and Afghanistan would be the other nations in the group, Pakistan’s position in the semi-finals seems very definite.
Also read: T20 WC- We Will Show What Indians Can Do: Harbhajan Singh
