Cricket:Pakistan wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider claims death threats forced him to flee to London rather than "sell out the dignity and respect of my motherland" by agreeing to throw matches.
The 24-year-old reportedly received threatening messages following his part in Pakistan’s victory in the fourth one-day international against South Africa, in which he made 19 not out and hit the winning runs.
He then failed to report for duty at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, with reports claiming he had made his way to Britain.
In an interview reported to have been given from a hotel at Heathrow, Haider told Pakistan based Geo News: “I received death threats to lose the fourth and fifth one-day internationals against South Africa, but I could not compromise the dignity of my country.
“I would rather flee away than sell out the dignity and respect of my motherland.”
He added: “I can assure you that I am safe and sound. I’m not arrested but I cannot tell where I am hiding for the sake of protection of my life.
“Immigration officials in the UK were kind to me and proposed me to hire the services of a counsellor but I am yet to reach a decision.”
Haider has been assured of all manner of help by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK Wajid Shamsul Hasan, saying: “We will give him any consular assistance that he requires.”
The player himself is adamant that his family is also in danger from the criminal elements.
Haider said: “I cannot further speak out over the issue until my family is given protection back in Pakistan.”