Ex Pak players pessimistic about hosting Champions Trophy

Imran said he remained pessimistic about the eight-nation tournament being held in Pakistan. The former all-rounder felt there was every possibility of ICC taking it away as it would be difficult to convince countries like Australia and England about the security situation in Pakistan.

"The security concerns are many and when we have 65 suicide attacks last year so the foreign players are obviously scared of coming to Pakistan," Imran said.

Another former great Javed Miandad echoed his views. "I really don't know what to say but the way things are, the way foreign teams are constantly talking about the security, it seems difficult that the tournament would be held in Pakistan," he said.

Miandad said if the Champions Trophy is relocated, the Pakistan Cricket Board would have to bear the blame as it had not done enough lobbying to convince other countries about the situation in the country. "If the government gets involved, it might help the PCB's cause," he said.

Another former player, who didn't want to be named, felt the ICC decision to have a special task force to inspect last minute arrangements in Pakistan were a sham.

"It is all a ploy to reduce the blow for Pakistan when they finally shift the event away from here to Sri Lanka. If India takes a strong stand then the ICC and the countries not wanting to send their teams to Pakistan might come under pressure," he said.

Former Test star Mudassar Nazar said the security concerns were understandable but the participating nations should also give a thought to the PCB's assurances.