Rising tensions in the Middle East have begun to directly impact international cricket. The second unofficial ODI between Pakistan Shaheens and England Lions, scheduled for 1 March 2026, has been cancelled due to serious security concerns in the region.

The match was set to take place at the Oval Stadium, but escalating hostilities involving Iran, Israel, and the United States led to a volatile situation across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates.

Security concerns force cancellation

Following reports of missile attacks and retaliatory strikes, there were unconfirmed reports of explosions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, prompting authorities to suspend air traffic across the region.

Acting on advice from security experts and government agencies, the England and Wales Cricket Board decided to call off the match, stressing that the safety of players, officials, and support staff remains the top priority.

All players and team personnel from both sides have been instructed to remain inside their hotels, with training sessions also suspended. Officials are closely monitoring the situation, and further decisions regarding travel or the continuation of the tour will be taken once regional airspace reopens.

Series status now uncertain

The abandoned fixture was the second match of a five-game 50-over series. In the opening game, England Lions registered a dominant nine-wicket victory, dismissing Pakistan Shaheens for 152 and chasing the target comfortably.

Prior to the ODIs, a three-match T20 series was also played, which England won 3–0. The tour was originally scheduled to conclude on 9 March, but no clarity has yet emerged on whether the remaining matches will be played, postponed, or cancelled altogether.

Other cricket events also affected

The crisis has triggered wider disruptions. The England women’s team’s training camp in Abu Dhabi has been postponed, while the upcoming Afghanistan vs Sri Lanka T20I and ODI series in the UAE—set to begin on 13 March—is also under threat. Both cricket boards are expected to prioritise player safety before making any final decisions.