October 16 Wednesday 2002
ICC urged Tauqir to reconsider resignation 

LONDON: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Tauqir Zia is being urged to reconsider his decision to resign by the International Cricket Council (ICC). 

In a statement on Tuesday, ICC President Malcolm Gray said: "I urge Tauqir to reconsider his decision. He has the knowledge, capabilities and experience to lead Pakistan Cricket." The game in Pakistan is going through an enormously complex and difficult period on and off the field. Throughout this time Tauqir has been a powerful and persuasive advocate for the cause of Pakistan Cricket." Tauqir submitted his resignation to President Pervez Musharraf after the team lost the second test against Australia inside two days on Saturday. Pakistan made only 112 runs in two innings in the match in Sharjah, the fourth worst in Test history. 

The humiliating defeat comes at a turbulent time for Pakistan cricket. Off the field, Pakistan have also suffered as a result of security concerns after the suicide bombing outside the touring New Zealand team's hotel in Karachi in May. Since then teams, including Australia, have refused to tour Pakistan. 

"It would be a significant blow to the game if he were lost to the sport," added Gray. "Given the issues that remain in Pakistan cricket at this time, it is essential that there is stability in the leadership of the PCB. "I hope that General Musharraf will refuse to accept the resignation in the interests of the game in Pakistan."