Post attack, Oram apprehensive of playing IPL

Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 4:03 am

New Zealand all-rounder Jacob Oram on Wednesday (March 4) voiced his concerns of playing in the second season of the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) after Tuesday’s ghastly attack on Sri Lankan players in Lahore.

When asked about how comfortable he would be to return to India for the Twenty20 tournament, Oram said that he would be comfortable, but he cannot turn a blind eye on what is going on especially after Tuesday (March 3) attacks.

The Black Caps star performer, who has a lucrative contract with the Chenai Super Kings, though added that he would be comfortable returning to India subject to assurances regarding player safety.

“The IPL has obviously opened doors financially that I could only dream about but I’m married now and it would take a lot to turn a blind eye to what’s going on,” he said.

“I don’t think I would have had any worries going to India but after what happened in Mumbai I think there’s definite questions to be asked. I won’t say no to it just yet but if it gets worse we have to seriously look at it. I know players’ associations around the world are trying to up security,” added the all-rounder.

Oram said the inaugural IPL had a relaxed “circus” feel to it but events in India and Lahore meant the “reality had hit home”.

“We take for things for granted here like safety that is not readily available over there. The fact a cricket team had been specifically targeted was a serious concern. It is surprising — the impression we got was we’d be safe,” he said.

Oram added, “(Pakistani legend) Imran Khan said six months ago terrorist groups would not target cricket teams because it would create such a public outcry against them. I suppose that theory goes out the window.”

The CEO of New Zealand Cricket Justin Vaughan has made it clear that the Kiwis would not be touring the trouble torn nation in December. But are ready to consider the possibility of playing Pakistan at a neutral venue. (Read more)

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia also said that if there were any concerns about security when they play Pakistan in April they may be forced to delay the tour.

( This post is from an independent writer. The opinions and views expressed herein are those of the author and are not endorsed by APakistanNews.Com.)

Post attack, Oram apprehensive of playing IPL

From World:

Todays news from Sports News

Advertisement

Email Subscription

Advertisement