New Delhi: English all-rounder Luke Wright became the latest high-profile to pull out of the final of ongoing Pakistan Super League due to security concerns.
The 31-year-old, who was a part of Quetta Gladiators squad, took to Twitter on Thursday to announce the news.
"It's with a heavy heart I will not be coming to Lahore. I have a young family and for me a game of cricket is just not worth the risk," he wrote.
It's with a heavy heart I will not be coming to Lahore. I have a young family and for me a game of cricket is just not worth the risk 1/3
— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) February 28, 2017
The 31-year-old, who represented Quetta Gladiators in the month-long Twenty20 tournament, also apologized to the fans.
"I'm sorry as I know how much it means to you all and hopefully in the future the safety will not be in doubt to come play there," he added.
I'm sorry as I know how much it means to you all and hopefully in the future the safety will not be in doubt to come play there. 2/3
— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) February 28, 2017
However, his withdrawal did not go down well with one Pakistani fan who abused him for his move. Luke did not stoop to his level but shut him down in style.
Here's his reply:
Not sure you are very peaceful with a message like that!! https://t.co/oFRLCyV0ek
— Luke Wright (@lukewright204) March 1, 2017
All the PSL matches were played in Dubai and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates until the final, which will be played in Lahore.
Quetta Gladiators pulled off a nerve-racking last-over win over Peshawar Zalmi by just one run in the first play-off in Sharjah to qualify for the final.
The final will be held under tight security after deadly blasts which rocked Lahore recently.
In a meeting held between the PSL management and the five franchise owners in Dubai, it was decided the summit clash of the tournament would be held in Lahore as per schedule.
It should be noted that Pakistan have not hosted any international cricket tournaments since the terror attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in 2009, when six Pakistani Policemen were killed and some of the visiting players were injured.
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