ICC World Cup 2011: Matches moved out of Pakistan

Pakistan has been stripped of hosting rights for the 2011 World Cup because of the "uncertain security situation" in the country, a statement released by the International Cricket Council said after its meeting in Dubai. Security in Pakistan was one of the issues that were thought would be discussed in the meeting and this decision comes as no surprise to many, given the recent developments in the country. This decision means Pakistan would lose its share of 16 matches in the ICC World Cup 2011, which will now be shared between co-hosts India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. This is a huge blow for the game in Pakistan and also for the cricket loving people of Pakistan, who were hoping to the mega event staged in their country. But the security issue remains a huge concern after the recent attack on Srilankan cricket team. All that we can hope is peace returns to the country and cricket again is played on Pakistani soil.