Australia's World Cup qualifier against Bangladesh "is at risk of being cancelled" after Football Federation of Australia raised safety concerns with FIFA and federal government agencies, according to Dominic Bossi of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. The "risk of a terrorist attack in the Bangladesh capital has been underlined" after ISIS claimed responsibility of the murder of an Italian aid worker. An FFA spokesperson said, "FFA is concerned about the security situation in Bangladesh and will continue on-going discussions with DFAT, relevant government agencies and security experts in relation to the Socceroos World Cup Qualifier against Bangladesh in Dhaka on 17 November 2015. FFA has formally raised the matter with FIFA and AFC" (SMH, 10/1). In Adelaide, Val Migliaccio reported Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade claims it has information "that militants may be planning to target Australian and Western interests in Bangladesh" (ADELAIDE NOW, 10/1).
CA POSTPONES TOUR: Cricket Australia announced on Thursday that due to concern about the safety and security of the Australian Test team, it has been forced to postpone the upcoming Qantas Tour of Bangladesh. CA CEO James Sutherland said that recent advice from the Australian Security & Intelligence Organization, DFAT and CA's Head of Security about an increasing security risk for the Australian team in Bangladesh meant this month's matches could not proceed (CA). In Sydney, Jesse Hogan reported CA wants to play the series in Bangladesh at a later date, "although there is no indication of when that would -- or could -- occur." While Sutherland stood behind the decision, he expressed "empathy for the cricket fans of Bangladesh who will now be unable to witness Australia's second-ever Test series in Bangladesh and their first for 11 years." Sutherland: "We understand that this decision will be very disappointing for the cricket community in Bangladesh. However, from an Australian perspective, the safety of our players and officials is our highest priority. We will work with the BCB to reschedule the tour as soon as possible." CA's decision was endorsed by the players' union. Australian Cricketers' Association CEO Alistair Nicholson said, "It was by no means a call made lightly; it was made based on the recommendations of experts from a variety of organizations. ... From the players' point of view they fully support the decision that's been made" (SMH, 10/1). REUTERS reported CA's decision came two days before the squad's scheduled warm-up match at Fatullah and despite the Bangladesh Cricket Board offering the touring side "a level of security reserved for visiting heads of state." BCB President Nazmul Hassan said, "This is very unfortunate. We are hoping the tour will be rearranged as soon as possible. We left no stone unturned in providing assurance regarding security for the Australian team" (REUTERS, 10/1).
