The New Nation - Internet Edition

BBC Online

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ejaz Butt has admitted the terror attacks in Mumbai have made India's Test tour of Pakistan in January unlikely.

The Indian board is awaiting clearance from its government for the tour.

"Before this tragic incident took place we were pretty confident the Indians would tour," said Butt.

"But now the scenario has definitely changed and now it is entirely up to the governments what they decide. We must wait and see what will happen."

Pakistan have not played a Test series since December 2007, but Butt insists they will do everything they can to ensure it can go ahead.

England are due to return home from their base in Bhubaneswar following the terrorist incidents, which killed at least 110 people and have injured another 300, while India's Champions League cricket tournament, which was due to start on 3 December, has been postponed.

"England are going home from India and the Champions League is postponed, so it is not an ideal situation for anyone," said Butt.

"But if India do come for the tour it will send a clear-cut message to these terrorists they cannot deter the people of both countries from leading normal lives.

"We are trying 200% to have the Indians play in Pakistan. If they don't come then we have the option of playing at neutral venues."

India are due to play three Tests, five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 game on a tour lasting 46 days.