Pakistan Shaheens vs England Lions match called off in Abu Dhabi amid tensions in the region

NEW DELHI: The second one day match of the ongoing series between Pakistan Shaheens and England Lions was abandoned in Abu Dhabi on Saturday due to the prevailing security situation in the region.

A Pakistan Cricket Board official confirmed that the fixture, which was scheduled for today, has been cancelled. All players and team officials have been instructed to remain inside their hotel as a precautionary step.

The decision was taken after consultation with the England and Wales Cricket Board in light of the escalating situation in Abu Dhabi.

“There will be no practice session as well and the team has been advised to remain indoors,” the official said, stressing that the safety and security of players and support staff remains the top priority.

The PCB is in constant touch with the ECB and continues to closely monitor developments.

Future of series uncertain

The board will take a call on the remainder of the series once Middle East airspace reopens. A decision will be made on whether to bring the Shaheens squad back to Pakistan or proceed with the remaining matches depending on how the security scenario unfolds.

The disruption comes after coordinated military strikes were launched by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, which triggered retaliatory missile fire by Tehran across parts of the Gulf and led several countries to shut or restrict their airspace.

(With PTI Inputs)