South African sports minister Gayton McKenzie is the latest entity to raise his voice against the participation of Afghanistan in the International Cricket Council (ICC) Champions Trophy

South Africa’s Sports Minister has voiced his strong opposition to Afghanistan’s participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy

By Mark Gleeson CAPE TOWN (Reuters) -South Africa Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie said he supported calls for a boycott of Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan, adding his voice to those of British politicians who have called on England not to play them next month.

Despite the mounting concerns, the PCB remains optimistic that the stadiums will be ready in time for the Champions Trophy.

Fakhar Zaman is confident of returning to international cricket after eight months when Pakistan hosts the Champions Trophy next month.

The Pakistan Cricket Board is leaving no stone unturned as it seeks to get its venues ready for the Champions Trophy tournament – the first ICC tournament on its territory this century. Having a world event in Pakistan would be the final seal of approval,