Kargil war cause for concern Down Under

But with the Kashmir conflict escalating, the Australian Cricket Board (ACB) has been forced to look at other options for the one-day series in January and February.

ACB chief executive Mal Speed today said, “we’re reviewing it on a daily basis and we’re seeking advice from foreign affairs. (But) given the situation, we are looking at other options.”

At least two former Pakistani captains have called for an end to cricketing relations between the two countries. Intikhab Alam and Javed Miandad both said India should have the courage to pull out of the tri-nation one-day series In australia early next year.

“But they can’t dare do that. ACB will hold them by the scruff of their necks,”Javed said. If there is a change to the 1999-2000 Australian summer schedule, the most likely solution would be for Australia to replace either India or Pakistan in the limited-overs competition.

“The other option is not to have a triangular series, but instead go head-to-head against either India or Pakistan,” Speed said.

The only other country available to fill in as a replacement at that time is Sri Lanka, but they have already toured Australia this year and will also host the Australians in August and September.