Younus Khan questions Pakistan’s mental state after Peshawar school tragedy

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  • Mourning: Pakistan batsman Younus Khan expressed concern over the Peshawar school massacre.

    Pakistan batsman Younus Khan has revealed that it will be ‘very difficult’ for his side to take to the field in today’s fourth one-day international against New Zealand after the Peshawar school masssacre. 

    At least 132 school students and nine members of staff were killed in the army run school after the Taliban broke in and opened fire, making it one of the nation’s deadliest massacres.

    The tragedy has seen a wealth of worldwide support flow into the region, with many standing in solidarity with the victims of the attack. 

    And the 37-year-old questioned the mental state of the team, comparing it to the recent death of Australian batsmen Phillip Hughes.

    “It is a national tragedy and a barbaric act. Playing the match is going to be very difficult,” Younus, who has played 97 tests and 357 one-dayers, told Geo Super television.

    “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,”

    New Zealand cricket CEO David White also expressed his dismay at the actions of the extremist group, and has reiterated that appropriate measures will be taken throughout the match.

    “Everyone at NZC is shocked by tragic events in Peshawar, our hearts go out to those affected as well as the Pakistan team and cricket family. We await to hear from Pakistan on a desired course of action re: tomorrow’s match and we will be guided by what they feel is appropriate,” White said in a statement.

    Meanwhile, Pakistan team manager Moin Khan said: “Our minds and hearts are with these children,”

    A minute silence will be observed prior to the commencement of play and black armbands will be donned by players throughout the match. 

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