The England cricket team is likely to return to India on December 5 to play the two Test series against India. Flintoff, Harmison not to return for Tests.
England in India 2008/09
England May Return, First Test Shifted To Mohali
Last Update : 01-Dec-2008 13:25:00 IST

New Delhi: The International Cricket Council (ICC) urged England on Sunday to play next month's Test series in India if player safety concerns are addressed in the wake of the Mumbai attacks.

"If safety and security allow then I would urge the England Test tour of India to go ahead and if it does so then representatives of the ICC will be there to show solidarity with the competing teams," chief executive Haroon Lorgat said in a statement.

"And if those tests are played I would also urge supporters of the game to attend them as that will be the best way to send a message to those who seek to disrupt our way of life, that we will not be prevented from doing what we want or what we enjoy," added the South African.

Both national boards agreed England would return to play the two-Test series, starting on December 11. The first Test from December 11 to 15 has been shifted to Mohali from Ahmedabad. The second Test had been shifted to Chennai earlier itself after the terror attack on Mumbai. The three-day practice game that was scheduled to be held in Baroda from December 5 to 7 is also likely cancelled.

The ICC chief executive committee will discuss security challenges for the game when it meets in Cape Town next week. The ruling body already has major security concerns in Pakistan and postponed the September Champions Trophy until late next year after a possible boycott by five of the eight teams.