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Champions Trophy security issues remain

May wants more action in Pakistan

Cricinfo staff

August 14, 2008

Tim May: "One of the concerns is that we haven't been able to see enough of the implementation of the security forces" © AFP

Tim May, the chief executive of the global players' union, believes Pakistan must do more to ensure the safety of players at next month's Champions Trophy. May will form part of an ICC task force that will attempt to allay the touring fears of New Zealand in meetings on Thursday before travelling to Australia on Friday.

In the Herald Sun May, who represents the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations, praised the Pakistan Cricket Board for its efforts, but said more had to be done. And he said it was not too late to make the changes.

"One of the concerns of the task force is that we haven't been able to see enough of, let's say, the implementation of the security forces," May told the paper. "We need to speak to the players and governing bodies and see if they are in the same position too, if they want to see some more."

Geoff Lawson, the Pakistan coach and former Test bowler, will join May in the meetings in an effort to convince Australia and New Zealand to travel. Australia postponed Test and one-day series earlier in the year while New Zealand, along with England and South Africa, have concerns over participating in the tournament, which is due to start on September 12.

"I am coming at the ICC's request to give my personal experiences to the New Zealand and Australian players and officials," Lawson said in the Australian. "I will be telling them why I live in Lahore and why I think it is safe.

"I wouldn't be living there if I didn't think it was safe. I will be letting them know my straightforward and earnest views."

Australia point to the government's travel warnings when arguing against going to Pakistan. "We strongly advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Pakistan at this time due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, sectarian violence and the unpredictable security situation," the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade's website says. "If you do decide to travel to Pakistan, you should exercise extreme caution."

While one ICC group is in the southern hemisphere, another will be travelling to England, where it will talk with English and South African officials early next week. David Morgan, the ICC president, will receive the results of the meetings on August 20.

© Cricinfo