Australia and New Zealand players warned not to compete

By Julian Linden

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia and New Zealand players have been advised not to travel to Pakistan for this year's Champions Trophy, opening the prospect of a possible boycott of the international one-day tournament.

The players' unions of both countries joined their South African counterparts in expressing their disappointment at the International Cricket Council's (ICC) decision on Thursday not to move the tournament to another venue.

The Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA) said concerns remained for the safety of their players and they would recommend not travelling to Pakistan to compete in the September event, regarded as second only in importance to the World Cup.

"The ACA continues to have serious concerns with our players touring Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and we are disappointed with the ICC," ACA chief executive Paul Marsh said in a statement on Friday.

"We are seeking clarity on the purpose and role of the proposed task force, so we are unable to comment on it at this stage.

"Based on the independent information and advice received, we maintain that the risks are simply too great for the ACA to recommend that our players tour Pakistan at this time."

Several leading Australian players have also expressed reservations about visiting Pakistan. Earlier this year, Australia postponed their planned tour of the country because of similar security fears.

Cricket Australia (CA) said player safety remained their primary concern and they would continue to liaise closely with players and government officials before making a decision.