New Zealand's tour of Pakistan on

New Zealand has confirmed its forthcoming tour of Pakistan despite the recent attack on a church in Islamabad and security apprehensions arising out of the shocking incident.

"I am satisfied with the security arrangements which are up to requirements and the tour should proceed," observed New Zealand Team Manager Jeff Crowe who visited Pakistan after their One-day series with England was completed.

The News, quoting New Zealand Chief Executive Martin Snedden, today said, "I am satisfied from the reports I have received that appropriate arrangements have been put in place by the Pakistan Cricket Board to ensure players' safety and comfort." On advice from Crowe and other sources, including professional security advisors, Snedden gave the go-ahead for the tour.

Snedden pointed out, "It was always our intention to reschedule a tour to Pakistan, if we could ascertain that the safety of our players was not in jeopardy and we could find time in our playing schedule to accommodate it. I am delighted as both of these criteria have been satisfied and I look forward to an exciting contest," he added.

He disclosed that New Zealand would send separate Test and one-day sides for their tour of Pakistan, beginning from April 18.

Snedden said a separate Test selection would be made for the tour but he did not know how many players would be involved. "That is for the selectors to decide," he added.

It was also decided, in consultation with the players, that no warm-up first-class games will be played before the Tests.

The Black Caps would play three One-days and two Tests during the 24-day tour.

Earlier, dismissing the security apprehensions that the attack on the church would have any impact on the Kiwis' tour to the country, the PCB asserted that the tour would go on as per schedule.

The New Zealanders would arrive in Karachi from Sharjah on April 18 after participating in a triangular competition in Sharjah.