BCCI will provide best possible security in World T20:Anurag Thakur

Amidst speculation that Pakistan may pull out of the upcoming World T20 tournament in India over security concerns, BCCI honorary secretary Anurag Thakur on Wednesday insisted that the country's cricket board would organize the event in the best possible manner and provide adequate security to all the teams.

"If we talk about the T20 World Cup, all international teams will come in India to play. Pakistan are one of the 16 teams participating in the event. The Indian Government will provide security to all teams in all the places where the matches will be held. I think the teams, which have qualified for the World Cup, should come and participate in the tournament," Thakur told ANI here.

The 41-year-old said that the BCCI had successfully organised many major tournaments in the past, adding that it was entirely up to Pakistan to decide whether they wanted to play the World T20 in India or not.

"They must have their own reasons. Now, it's up to them to decide whether they want to play. India is ready for the World T20 and the BCCI will organize the event well and will provide security to everyone. Earlier also, we have organised international events. I don't think any country needs to worry in India," Thakur said.

PCB chairman Shahryar Khan had earlier hinted that his side might withdraw from the upcoming World T20 if the Pakistan Government did not permit them to tour India amidst security concerns.

Shahryar added that they had also made the proposal during the recent ICC Board meeting in Dubai that Pakistan are ready to play the World T20 matches at neutral venues in case the government's decision is negative.

The T20 pinnacle event is slated to be held in India between March 11 to April 3.