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Kargil crisis threatens tour of Australia

Australian cricket authorities are looking at contingency plans for next summer's home series with India and Pakistan because of the conflict in Kargil.

India and Pakistan are both scheduled to play three Tests each in Australia before joining the host-nation in a triangular limited-overs series.

But with the Kargil conflict escalating, the Australian Cricket Board (ACB) has been forced to look at other options for the one-day series in January and February.

ACB chief executive Malcolm Speed said on Wednesday: "We're reviewing it on a daily basis and we're seeking advice from foreign affairs. But given the situation, we are looking at other options."

Political pressure from India and Pakistan has already forced the cancellation of the annual one-day tournament between the two countries, held in Canada each September.

Indian cricket star Sachin Tendulkar said in New Delhi on Friday that while the two countries were fighting "it's very hard to go out there and play on a cricket field".

His remarks came after former Indian captain Kapil Dev demanded that India should not play Pakistan even on neutral territory.

At least two former Pakistani captains have also called for an end to cricketing relations between the two countries.

Intikhab Alam and Javed Miandad both said that India should have the courage to pull out of the tri-nation one-day series in Australia early next year.

"But they can't dare do that. The Australian Cricket Board will hold them by the scruff of their necks," Javed said.

If there is a change to the 1999-2000 Australian summer schedule, the most likely solution would be for Australia A to replace either India or Pakistan in the limited-overs competition.

"The other option is not to have a triangular series, but instead go head-to-head against either India or Pakistan," Speed said.

The only other country available to fill in as a replacement at that time is Sri Lanka, but they have already toured Australia this year and will also host the Australians in August and September.

The ACB are expected to ratify that tour on Monday after reviewing security arrangements.

"The decision whether the security measures are appropriate is up to the ACB directors but it was a successful mission," Australian Cricketers' Association president Tim May said.

"I was satisfied with the steps that have been taken and are being taken but at the end of the day we will be guided by the ACB."

UNI