ISLAMABAD: New Zealand's sudden pullout from its first Pakistan series in 18 years was an "unfortunate scenario" but the hosts will come out of it, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman said on Saturday.
New Zealand on Friday said it was abandoning the tour over security fears. The announcement came just as the visitors were to face Pakistan at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in the first of three one-day internationals (ODIs). The Black Caps were in Pakistan for the first time since 2003.
"It's an unfortunate scenario," PCB chairman Ramiz Raja said in a video message.
"We'll come out of it," he said. "We have experienced similar situations before, but we've always moved forward."
Pakistan has been trying to revive tours by foreign squads after home internationals were suspended in the aftermath of a terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan side in 2009. It has ever since managed to attract many foreign players, especially with the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
"I can feel your pain," Raja said, addressing Pakistan team supporters. "I urge the fans to back the Pakistan cricket team ... support them in the World Cup."
The World Cup is scheduled to take place in the United Arab Emirates and Oman from October 17 to November 14.
As many of the national team players have expressed their frustration at New Zealand's decision, he urged them to vent it through their performance on the field.
"My message to the cricket team is to let out your frustration, anger through performance," Raja said. "When you become the best team, everyone will want to play with you in Pakistan."
