Presidential level of security for players

LONDON (AFP) - Players will receive a "presidential" level of security for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, British media quoted International Cricket Council officials as telling the England squad on Tuesday.

The issue of England's participation in the tournament, due to start on September 12 in Pakistan, was discussed at an England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) meeting, with the ICC insisting the event would be able to go ahead as planned without recourse to a different venue.

Security fears have prompted New Zealand and Australia to cast doubts about competing despite their players also meeting with high-ranking figures from the International Cricket Council (ICC), the sport's world governing body.

England players had met with ICC representatives Sunday night to discuss their fears about travelling.Media reports said officials had told the players security would be as high as for a visiting head of state, seeking to allay fears that Pervez Musharraf's resignation as president would add to the uncertainty.

A decision on whether England will indeed travel is due to be made by Thursday.