ICC backs tour cancellation on ‘New Zealand’s darkest day’
As condolences poured in for the victims and their families, All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams, a devout Muslim, said his “heart is hurting” and posted an emotional video tribute.
“Inshallah (God willing) everyone who’s been killed today... you guys are all in paradise,” he said, wiping away tears as he spoke.
“Just deeply, deeply saddened that this would happen in New Zealand.”
Record-breaking ex-all Blacks fly-half Dan Carter, a long-time player for Christchurch’s Crusaders team, tweeted: “Sending love to everyone in Christchurch right now.”
The All Blacks, New Zealand’s all-conquering rugby team and the reigning world champions, tweeted: “Christchurch, we stand with you during this time.
“Our thoughts and sympathies are with everyone affected by today’s tragedy. Stay strong. Kia Kaha.”
As a minute’s silence was held at the Chiefs v Hurricanes Super Rugby game, a New Zealand derby, Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli called the killings “shocking and tragic”.
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan tweeted: “This reaffirms what we have always maintained: that terrorism does not have a religion.” DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday said it “fully supports” the cancellation of the third Test between New Zealand and Bangladesh in Christchurch after the visiting side had a narrow escape from a shooting attack at a mosque there.
The attack on the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Hagley Park killed several people, the media in New Zealand reported.
The Bangladesh team, which was about to enter the mosque to offer prayers, escaped unscathed but the prevailing situation led to the authorities calling off the third and final Test match starting Saturday. The match was the tour finale for the visitors.
“Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch. Both teams, staff and match officials are safe and the ICC fully supports the decision to cancel the Test match,” ICC Chief Executive David Rich-
Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to the families and friends of those affected by this horrendous incident in Christchurch.
DAVE RICHARDSON, ICC CEO on the terror attack
ardson said.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Arden said the attack was an “unprecedented act of violence” and “one of New Zealand’s darkest days”.
“This is significant and I can tell you now this is and will be one of New Zealand’s darkest days. I would describe it as an unprecedented act of violence, an act that has absolutely no place in New Zealand. This is not who we are,” she said.