Pakistan in no Mood to Play After Peshawar Attack, says Younis Khan
Pakistan take on New Zealand in the 4th ODI on Wednesday, a day after more than 130 students and nine staff members died on Tuesday when Taliban gunmen broke into a school and opened fire.
Following the gruesome killing spree at a Peshawar school that killed more than 130 children, senior Pakistan batsman Younis Khan has said it will be extremely tough for cricketers to play in the 4th ODI against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
"It is a national tragedy and a barbaric act. Playing the match is going to be very difficult," Younus told Geo Super television.
More than 130 students and nine staff members died on Tuesday when Taliban gunmen broke into a school and opened fire in one of the most horrifying acts of terrorism that has rocked Pakistan.
"How do you play a match when your spirit is not in the game? That is our state of mind right now."
"When Phil Hughes died it shocked every one of us and we postponed a day's play in the Test match against New Zealand," he added.
"It would not be a bad idea to postpone this game as well," said the 37-year-old Younus.
The players are to observe a minute's silence before Wednesday's match and will wear black armbands.
"Our minds and hearts are with these children," said Pakistan team manager Moin Khan.
New Zealand Cricket took to twitter to stand by Pakistan at a time when such a massacre has rocked the nation.
Pakistan, led by Shahid Afridi, lead the five-match series 2-1 after winning the first match in Dubai and the third in Sharjah. New Zealand won the second game, also played in Sharjah.
(With inputs from AFP)