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Pakistan has been stripped of hosting any matches in the 2011 World Cup because of the uncertain security situation


Pakistan has been stripped of hosting any matches in the 2011 World Cup because of the uncertain security situation in the south Asian country.

International Cricket Council president David Morgan said: "It is a regrettable decision but our priority is to deliver a safe, secure, successful event."

Pakistan were due to co-host the event with India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Seven of Sri Lanka's top cricketers and an assistant coach were injured in an attack by gunmen in Lahore on 3 March.

The other three countries hosting the tournament will share the 16 matches that would have been held in Pakistan.

The news came during the first day of the ICC board meeting in Dubai.

Ijaz Butt, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, said: "It's a disappointing decision but it can't be helped. Nobody wants to play in Pakistan following the attacks in Lahore."

The co-ordinated attack by around 12 gunmen - armed with grenade and rocket launchers - targeted the Sri Lankan team bus also killed eight Pakistanis.

Even then, Pakistani cricket was already suffering from serious security concerns.

India and Australia have pulled out of cricket tours in Pakistan in the recent past citing security concerns, and last October's ICC Champions Trophy was postponed and eventually moved away from the country.

Read the full story here.

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