The ECB say they are in contact with the UK Government and security officials in the wake of the United States’ military strikes on Iran, and have stated the safety of their players and staff in the Middle East, including the England Lions Men’s squad in Abu Dhabi, is their “top priority”.
The Lions had been due to play the second of five 50-over games against Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. That match has now been cancelled, following Iranian counter-strikes across the region, including on the Palm Jumeirah resort in Dubai. England Women’s training camp – which had been due to get underway in Abu Dhabi next week – has been postponed.
The 25-player Lions party, coached by Andrew Flintoff, has been unable to leave the region as the UAE’s airspace is closed.
An ECB spokesperson said: “The safety and security of our teams and staff is our top priority. We are in contact with security experts and the Government in relation to current events in the Middle East, and are following official advice.
“Tomorrow’s second 50-over game between England Men’s Lions and Pakistan Shaheens in Abu Dhabi will no longer go ahead, and we are delaying the departure of England Women for their proposed trip to Abu Dhabi next week.
“We will continue to monitor and assess the situation and official advice in relation to the future of these trips. England Men will travel to Mumbai for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup semi-final as planned.”
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