Pakistan expresses solidarity with NZ after Christchurch attack

KARACHI: Players of Peshawar Zalmi and Islamabad United, featuring in the last Eliminator of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) wore black armbands in Friday night’s game at the National Stadium to express solidarity with New Zealand after a devastating terrorist attack in Christchurch.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) also expressed shock and grief over the terrorist attacks on Christchurch mosques ahead of the Friday prayers. In a statement, PCB Chairman Mr Ehsan Mani said: “On behalf of the Pakistan cricket fraternity, I would like to condemn in the strongest possible way the cowardly, uncivilised and inhuman terrorist attacks on the innocent worshippers in Christchurch mosques.

“Our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragedy who will feel and understand their pain and loss better than us. In these difficult times, we also stand firmly with our colleagues in New Zealand Cricket and offer our deepest condolences.

“We are aware that the Bangladesh men’s cricket team were also praying at a mosque near the Hagley Park. We thank God Almighty that all of them escaped unhurt.

“As a mark of respect for the victims and to show support and solidarity with the New Zealand community and the NZC, it has been decided that we will observe a minute’s silence before the start of tonight’s HBL Pakistan Super League match, while all the players and match officials will wear black armbands.”

When it comes to terrorism, Pakistan is one of the worst-hit cricket-playing nations as for years it was a no-go zone for international teams. However, there are many foreign players featuring in PSL 4 currently moving towards Sunday nights’ climax in Karachi.