English team captain Joss Butler and players has separately pledged donations for the flood affected families in Pakistan.
Butler added that the thoughts and prayers of the team are with the flood victims in Pakistan. “Pakistan suffered floods and we can feel their pain. We are happy to be here for cricket in this tough time. As a team, we will make donations which will be matched by the ECB to make a little effort from our side,” Buttler said.
The English Cricket Board clarified how the donations would be made for the flood-hit population. The board stated the players have decided to donate to flood victims; the decision has been supported by Team England Player Partnership and the Professional Cricketers Association.
“The money will go to the DEC emergency appeal, and we would all encourage anyone who can support this cause to do so. The ECB has been happy to match the player’s donation,” the board said in a statement.
“Our thoughts are with all those who’ve been affected by these devastating floods in Pakistan. We hope that this series can help keep the world’s spotlight on what has happened and encourage people in the UK and around the world to help those affected in whatever way they can. In support of the humanitarian relief effort, the England Men’s team has decided to contribute to the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal, and the ECB will also be matching this donation,” an ECB spokesperson said.
England Cricket Team arrived in Pakistan on Thursday morning after hiatus of 17 years to play seven T20I matches against Pakistan.
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According to the police officials, strict security arrangements have been made for the team. The team was taken to the hotel under strict security surveillance from Karachi Airport.
The T20I bilateral series is set to begin from September 20th till October 2nd. Matches will be played in Karachi and Lahore. The first four matches of the series will be played in the National Stadium of Karachi while the remaining three will be played in the Gaddafi Stadium of Lahore.