PCB defends music-filled PSL closing ceremony despite Christchurch mosque attack

"Cricket must not be stopped due to terrorism," PCB chief Ehsan Mani said, defending the decision to organise a music-filled PSL closing ceremony despite terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch.

The Pakistan Cricket Board is facing public ire for not being sensitive enough considering that at least 50 people were killed during the Friday prayers in the terrorist attack.

Mani said the ceremony was actually 'toned down'.

"We acknowledged the incident, observed a minute's silence, released pigeons and cut out dancing. All the songs too were iconic Pakistani songs," said Mani.

He claimed that Pakistan is the worst victim of terrorism and cricket should not be stopped because of terrorism or terrorists.

Mani said that the incident in New Zealand proves that terrorism is a global menace.

"We had a dilemma due to the unfortunate New Zealand incident. People forget that we are also the victims of terrorism. Now the world knows what challenges are there. Pakistan's problems are not different to anyone else's.

"It doesn't mean we should gloat. We will work with them and share our experiences but cricket should not stop. If cricket stops due to terrorism then it's a victory for the terrorists. Players' safety is of course important and cannot be risked but the game must go on too."
"This was a remarkable endorsement of PSL. Due to the geo-political situation, it was important that we demonstrated that Pakistan is capable of holding such an event."