Twenty20 World Cup could be next target, say experts

This summer’s Twenty20 World Cup in England could be next target of terrorists, British Government ministers feared last night.

Terrified cricket bosses are to hold urgent talks with security officials in a bid to avoid a repeat of Tuesday’s horror in Lahore, reports the Daily Star.

The tournament is due to start at Lord’s on June 5, with a further 26 games to be played at venues, including Surrey’s Oval and Trent Bridge in Nottingham.

Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe said: “We have to look at security. We don’t want terrorists to win. We have to strike the right balance.”

Last night, Pakistan looked ­certain to be stripped of their right to host the 2011 Cricket World Cup.

International Cricket Council president David Morgan said: “It’s difficult to see international ­cricket being played there for the foreseeable future.”

Former England bowler Dominic Cork, 37, who was in Lahore as a Test commentator, added: “I don’t think international cricket should return to this country.

“I won’t be coming back here, not while I’m living. There is no chance.”

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram, 42, admitted: “Hosting the World Cup is now a distant dream. How do you expect foreign teams to come to Pakistan now?”