New Zealand cricket players are leaving India and Pakistan due to rising military tensions between the two countries. This comes after a night of cross-border fighting in the Kashmir region, where India and Pakistan have long-standing disputes.
More than a dozen New Zealanders were playing in two major cricket tournaments — the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Players, coaches, and support staff from the PSL have already flown to Dubai. Those involved in the IPL are also leaving as soon as flights are available.
Among the Kiwi players affected are famous names like Kane Williamson, Trent Boult, and Rachin Ravindra. New Zealand Cricket said their team in Bangladesh is safe and will stay there for now.
Both the IPL and the PSL have been suspended because of the growing conflict. The IPL, one of the world’s most popular cricket leagues, was paused on Friday with 12 games still left in the group stage. The final had been set for May 25 in Kolkata.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s cricket board also stopped the PSL, which was in its final stages. Some matches had already been moved to Dubai, but after a drone fell near the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, officials decided to delay the tournament completely.
Leaders from both countries said the safety of players and fans is more important than continuing the games. Organisers promised updates on whether the tournaments will continue once things are safer.
