England formulate Plan B

25 August 2006

Inzamam-ul-Haq weighs up his options © Getty Images

England have lined up a World XI as back-up opposition for Monday’s NatWest Twenty20 international amid fears Pakistan may cancel the remainder of their tour.

The tourists, aggrieved at their treatment during the final Test at the Brit Oval, have refused to rule out the prospect of not playing in the one-day matches as captain Inzamam-ul-Haq awaits the verdict on two charges of breaching the International Cricket Council's Code of Conduct.

Inzamam’s disciplinary hearing was due to be heard on Friday, but was postponed indefinitely because chief match referee Ranjan Madugalle could not attend due to personal problems.

Though the ECB remains confident that Pakistan will fulfil their obligations, it has sought alternative opposition for Monday and sounded out other countries to fill the gap for the five-match one-day series which follows.

“We’re pleased that discussions strongly indicate the England v Pakistan Twenty20 international and the subsequent NatWest Series will proceed as planned,” said ECB chief executive David Collier.

“However, given the current uncertainty concerning the scheduling of the Code of Conduct hearing and imminence of the Twenty20 international, it is prudent to examine all options to provide spectators with guaranteed play on Monday.

“This has been achieved and, while ECB and PCB hope that this contingency plan will not be required, the International XI remains on standby.”

In attempting to deliver as strong a side as possible, England have brought Monday's NatWest Pro40 match between Nottinghamshire and Glamorgan forward a day to ensure more overseas players as possible are available.

Collier added: “The ECB can also confirm that it has been in discussion with the ICC and other full member boards to provide a further contingency plan for the NatWest Series.

“These discussions are well advanced, but it is hoped that the Pakistan team will be able to fulfil its commitments.”