“No, that is not a true statement. I am glad to say I have listened to the debate but it is not necessarily on the lines of a divide in the ICC.” ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat dismisses talk of pressures of an Asian bloc “The South African team are very disappointed with today’s decision and remain extremely concerned about safety and security in Pakistan.” Tony Irish, South African Cricketers’ Association chief executive officer “I have always said that Pakistan is a safe country to host any cricket team. And even our own team gets the best possible security in Pakistan. I would advise them (all participating teams) to leave the security arrangements to the boards and experts and concentrate on their cricket.”Shoaib Malik, Pakistan skipper “I don’t think we should even be bothered if some players decide against playing in Pakistan because the important thing is that the event is now being held in Pakistan.”Iqbal Qasim, former Pakistan Test spinner “It was not an easy situation for Pakistan because the top teams were against having the event in Pakistan. But I think our board fought their case well and I think Pakistan deserves to host its maiden Champions Trophy given the rich cricket culture in the country.”Mudassar Nazar, former opener Pakistan “There was a lot of concern over whether we would be able to host the event but now that the ICC has decided in our favour we should go all out to ensure that it is the best possible and safest event hosted in Pakistan. When Australia postponed their tour this year there was great disappointment. So it would be good for the people to see top teams in action in the Champions Trophy in their own country.”Zaheer Abbas, former Pakistan captain “We must ensure that the best possible security measures are put into place for the tournament and it is held smoothly just like the Asia Cup.”Haroon Rasheed, former Pakistan Test batsman
