Pakistan loses 2011 World Cup

The decision was taken at an International Cricket Council (ICC) executive board meeting on Friday and relates to the "uncertain security situation" in the country.

Pakistan had been due to co-host the event with India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka and the ICC said they would press ahead with the matches in those countries.

ICC president David Morgan said after the meeting in Dubai: "It is a regrettable decision but our number one priority is to create certainty and... deliver a safe, secure and successful event.

"The uncertainty created by events in Pakistan created a huge question mark over our ability to do just that."

At least seven Pakistanis were killed and six Sri Lanka players were injured during an armed attack on the visitors' team bus as they travelled to a Test match in Lahore at the start of March.

"It is extremely regrettable that the board has had to take this decision given the passion the people of Pakistan have for the game of cricket and for the ICC Cricket World Cup," Morgan added.

"It is highly unlikely that we will have the security clearance between now and the start date in 2011 for Pakistan to host international tournaments." link...