ICC considers World Cup changes

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked the organisers of the 2011 World Cup to think about alternative venues because of fears over security. 

It is scheduled to take place in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. 

Growing political tension between India and Pakistan has resulted in moves to consider new venues within countries as well as moving games out of countries. 

"This has to be done if something is not favourable in any of the host countries," said Haroon Lorgat. 

But the ICC chief executive added: "We are committed to staging the World Cup in Asia." It is too early to be concerned but we are monitoring the situation on a regular basis 

ICC chief executive Haroon Lorgat 

Security in Pakistan is a major concern for several countries following a wave of violent attacks in the country. 

The Champions Trophy, originally slated for September last year, was postponed and subsequently moved away from the Asian country after South Africa pulled out and Australia, England and New Zealand showed a reluctance to travel. 

Australia postponed a scheduled series in Pakistan last April and the Indian government cancelled a Test tour of the country in January and February in the wake of the 26 November Mumbai attacks that New Delhi blames on elements in Pakistan. 606: DEBATE 
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Sri Lanka are currently touring Pakistan for a two-Test series. 

The World Cup organising committee met on Tuesday to discuss the matter and while Lorgat explained that the situation was not at present a threat to the tournament going ahead, it did require monitoring. 

"This is not something we discussed, except to ask the organisers to consider alternate host city venues within the country as well as alternate country venues in the event of something not being favourable in one of the particular host countries," said Lorgat. 

"I am aware of the current situation, but the World Cup is still a long way off. 

"It is too early to be concerned, but we are monitoring the situation on a regular basis." 

Any possible alternative venue is expected to be announced at the next ICC executive board meeting in April in Dubai.