ACA Chief Executive Alistair Nicholson said:
“The decision by Cricket Australia (CA) to postpone the tour is the correct one in these difficult circumstances, particularly from a player safety and welfare point of view.
“The process for arriving at this decision was rigorous and we were in constant contact with CA, their security team, and the Australian players. It was by no means a call made lightly; it was made on the recommendations of experts from a variety of organisations, including DFAT, CA’s security team, and independent security assessors. Ultimately it was determined that the risk to the safety of players and support staff was too great for the tour to go ahead.
“From the players’ point of view, they fully support the decision that’s been made, however, they were looking forward to facing off against a challenging Bangladesh side playing on their home turf.
“The circumstances that led to the decision to postpone the tour are bigger than the game of cricket, and it’s important to view the issue in this context. Where there are elements that are beyond our control – as there are in this case - the importance of player safety is brought sharply into focus, and this is absolutely paramount.
“We will continue to work with CA in terms of the decisions that follow, and keep supporting the players as the 2016-16 season gets underway.
ACA Chief Executive Alistair Nicholson will be available for a stand-up media opportunity tomorrow at 9.00am at the Dennis Lillee statue outside the MCG.
WHO: Australian Cricketers’ Association CEO Alistair Nicholson
WHAT: Stand-up media opportunity to discuss the cancellation of the Australian tour to Bangladesh
WHEN: Friday 2 October at 9.00am
WHERE: Dennis Lillee statue outside MCG (near corner of Jolimont Tce and Jolimont St)
Please note that road closures will be operating in the area due to the AFL Grand Final parade so please bear this in mind. Click here for more info.
CONTACT: Eivion Bowen (ACA Communications Manager)
0425 555 569
ebowen@auscricket.com.au