Terror attacks in Mumbai: England cricket matches cancelled

Published on Thursday 27 November 2008 08:03

THE England cricket team postponed its final one-day matches against India amid fears for players' safety in the ongoing terror crisis, bosses said today.

With next month's Test series in doubt, the squad will remain in Bhubaneswar – on the east coast of the country – after cancelling a trip to the Guwahati region.

County side Middlesex also cancelled a flight to the strife-torn country for the inaugural Twenty20 Champions League after the attacks in India's financial capital.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is in talks with India officials over the second Test match, scheduled to be played in Mumbai from December 19.

Hugh Morris, ECB's managing director, said: "The safety and security of the England team is of the utmost importance to ECB.

"We have reviewed all our security arrangements in the light of these attacks and will be taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of the team."

India's cricketing board was in on-going discussions over the postponement, he said.

He added: "I have also briefed the England players and management on the situation as well as liaising closely with the ECB chairman and chief executive and the players' representatives.

"The events of last night were deeply distressing and the situation is still unfolding."

Shane Warne, captain of Champions League contenders Rajasthan Royals, was also travelling to Mumbai when the attacks began.

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