Karachi, August 25:

Pakistan today said they felt let down by Australia and South Africa after their security fears led to the postponement until 2009 of next month’s Champions Trophy. The ICC was forced to put off the eight-nation biennial tournament until October next year just two days after South Africa refused to send their team while Australia, New Zealand and England were also considering pull-outs.

Pakistan, who were due to host the Trophy from September 12-28, however kept the hosting rights. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief operating officer Shafqat Naghmi said his country felt let down by non-Asian teams. “We are definitely disappointed by Australia because they have not toured us for 10 years,” Naghmi said.

He said he was also surprised by South Africa’s sudden boycott and once major countries pulled out there was no point in holding the event. Naghmi hoped a full tour by archrivals India at the turn of the year would help remove security fears. Pakistan host India for three Tests and five ODIs.