World Twenty20 still on track: ICC

LAHORE: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has no plans to postpone the ICC World Twenty20 due to start on April 30 in the wake of the ash cloud resulting from the volcanic eruption in Iceland that has severely hampered air travel across Europe.

The cloud has jeopardised teams’ participation in the event, especially the Asian teams, as the majority are due to fly through England which is currently a no-fly zone.

“There is no move to delay or postpone the ICC World Twenty20 2010,” an ICC spokesperson told The Express Tribune. “We’re trying to work around the issue as best as possible. I don’t think anyone could have seen this one coming and the effect this eruption has had is unprecedented.”

The Pakistan men’s and women’s teams are due to depart for the West Indies towards the end of this week. While the men’s team will be taking part in warm-up matches prior to the event, the women’s side were scheduled to play a threematch series to acclimatise to the conditions.

“Many teams, officials and event organisers are due to pass through Europe so it’s presenting a significant challenge. However, it should be possible to re-route them to avoid any serious delays.”