Ardern says Black Caps could have been attacked in Pakistan
The one-day and T20 series has been cancelled with New Zealand Cricket citing a security alert in a massive blow to Pakistan's hopes of staging regular international games. The tour was due to get underway with the first of three one-dayers in Rawalpindi on Friday but New Zealand did not travel to the stadium. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) then issued a statement announcing their decision to call off the tour. "Following an escalation in the New Zealand Government threat levels for Pakistan, and advice from NZC security advisors on the ground, it has been decided the Blackcaps will not continue with the tour," it said.
NZC declined to share details of the security threat and said arrangements were being made for the team's departure. Pakistan's Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed said Pakistan security agencies did not have any such information. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said NZC had "unilaterally decided to postpone the series" despite "foolproof security arrangements" made for the matches. "The Pakistan Prime Minister spoke personally to the Prime Minister of New Zealand and informed her that we have one of the best intelligence systems in the world and that no security threat of any kind exists for the visiting team," the PCB said in a statement. "PCB is willing to continue the scheduled matches. However, cricket lovers in Pakistan and around the world will be disappointed by this last minute withdrawal." Newly-appointed PCB chairman Ramiz Raja, a former Pakistan captain, said they would approach the International Cricket Council (ICC) over what transpired on a "crazy day". "Walking out of the tour by taking a unilateral approach on a security threat is very frustrating. Especially when it's not shared!! Which world is NZ living in?? NZ will hear us at ICC," Raja tweeted.
PM backs pullout
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New Zealand, minus several frontline players, were visiting Pakistan for the first time in 18 years and were also due to play five Twenty20 matches in Lahore. Top teams have largely shunned Pakistan following an attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in 2009 that killed six policemen and two civilians. "I understand this will be a blow for the PCB, who have been wonderful hosts, but player safety is paramount and we believe this is the only responsible option," NZC chief executive David White said. Prime Minister Ardern backed NZC's decision to end the tour. "I know how disappointing it will be for everyone that the game hasn't gone ahead, but we totally support the decision that's been made. Player safety has to be paramount," she said in a statement. More disappointment could be in store for the PCB with England now reconsidering what was to be their first Pakistan visit in 16 years to play two T20 matches in Rawalpindi next month. "We are liaising with our security team who are on the ground in Pakistan to fully understand the situation," an England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) spokesperson said. The ECB Board will decide in the next few days if the tour should proceed. Pakistan captain Babar Azam summed up the sentiments in Pakistan where fans have been starved of live action involving top teams. "Extremely disappointed on the abrupt postponement of the (NZ) series, which could have brought the smiles back for millions of Pakistan cricket fans," tweeted the batsman.
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Live Q&A: Garden maintenance with Crewcut
This Wednesday, we are having another Neighbourly Q&A session. This time with John Bracewell from Crewcut.
John Bracewell, former Black Caps coach turned Franchisee Development Manager and currently the face of Crewcut’s #Movember campaign, knows a thing or two about keeping the grass looking sharp—whether it’s on a cricket pitch or in your backyard!
As a seasoned Crewcut franchisee, John is excited to answer your lawn and gardening questions. After years of perfecting the greens on the field, he's ready to share tips on how to knock your garden out of the park. Let's just say he’s as passionate about lush lawns as he is about a good game of cricket!
John is happy to answer questions about lawn mowing, tree/hedge trimming, tidying your garden, ride on mowing, you name it! He'll be online on Wednesday, 27th of November to answer them all.
Share your question below now ⬇️
Tips on Choosing the Right Mattress Size for Quality Sleep Every Night
When it comes to getting a good night's sleep, the right mattress size plays a crucial role.
You might have heard myths about beds and frames and which size suits you.
Today, we're here to demystify these myths and provide a size-by-size comparison to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Finding the Perfect Fit
Selecting the right mattress size is akin to finding the perfect fit in a world of options.
Much like trying on clothes or shoes, your mattress size should cater to your individual needs and preferences.
Let's explore some key factors to consider when finding the perfect fit for your mattress:
1. Personal Preferences.
Consider your sleeping habits and personal space preferences.
Do you like to sprawl out or curl up?
Are you a solo sleeper, or do you share the bed with a partner, kids, or pets?
Understanding your personal preferences is essential in determining the ideal mattress size.
2. Bedroom Size.
Take the dimensions of your bedroom into account when choosing a mattress size.
A spacious bedroom can accommodate larger mattress sizes, whereas smaller bedrooms may require more compact options to ensure ample space for movement and furniture placement.
3. Sleeping Partners.
If you share the bed with a partner, consider their sleeping habits and space requirements.
A larger mattress size, such as a queen or king, provides ample space for both individuals to move comfortably without disturbing each other's sleep.
What Size Should You Get?
Let's break it down size by size:
Single Mattress (91cm x 188cm). Ideal for kids' rooms, guest rooms, or small bedrooms. A single mattress is also a good option for individuals who prefer sleeping alone and value space conservation.
Double Mattress (137cm x 188cm). Also known as a full-size mattress, this option offers more room to stretch out than a single mattress. It's suitable for couples who like to snuggle or for individuals who appreciate extra space.
Queen Mattress (153cm x 203cm). The queen mattress is one of the most popular choices for couples. It provides ample space for two people to sleep comfortably without feeling cramped. It's also a great option for individuals who enjoy sprawling out.
King Mattress (167cm x 203cm). The king mattress offers the most space out of all the standard sizes. It's perfect for couples who want plenty of room to move around or for families who like to co-sleep with young children or pets.
Choosing the Perfect Mattress Size for Your Sleep Needs
Mattress sizes can vary around the world, which can sometimes lead to confusion. In New Zealand, we follow standard sizes such as single, double, queen, and king.
However, it's essential to consider your personal preferences and the dimensions of your bedroom and furniture when choosing a mattress size.
Selecting the right mattress size is crucial for a good night's sleep.
By understanding the differences between single, double, queen, and king mattresses, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs and preferences.
At Beds4U, we're committed to helping you find the perfect mattress size.