On one hand, the Pakistani security forces engaged in intense security practices as long as miles away from the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and the other hand, Pakistan Cricket Board received the news that the New Zealand Cricket Board has called off the series amidst “security threat” leaving Pakistani fans fuming, the board “disappointed”, and the anticipation meant nothing in the end.
The scars of the terrorist attack on Sri Lankan players in Lahore during 2009 continue to haunt Pakistani international cricket. Pakistani authorities have put in more effort than ever to make sure everything is safe and sound even since the first resumption of the bilateral International series in 2019. England Cricket Board(ECB) is also evaluating the situation and may not send their players after the “security threat” warning issued by New Zealand security system.