Pakistan seek series postponement

Pakistan last played host to Zimbabwe two years ago

The Pakistan Cricket Board wants to postpone a tour by Zimbabwe, which is scheduled to take place in September.

Zimbabwe are not currently playing Test cricket, so the proposed itinerary would only include three one-day games.

And PCB chairman Shaharyar Khan said a lack of interest from sponsors and TV companies meant such a series was not financially viable.

"We are going to write to them to postpone their tour until 2008," commented Khan.

He also cited a need for Pakistan's players to rest prior to the ICC Champions Trophy in India in October and November and a home series against West Indies which follows as reasons for a postponement.

Khan, meanwhile, has promised a review of the central contracts system following a request from national team captain Inzamam-ul-Haq.

They currently receive monthly payments ranging from £664 to £1,772, plus match fees for each Test and one-day international.

But Inzamam said the sums were not enough to make the players "financially secure".

Khan insisted, however, that there was no "demand or pressure" from the players for a pay increase, but win bonuses was a possibility.

"They trust us completely," he said.

"Inzamam has some suggestions which we will look into when we review the new contracts.

"We have to look at our financial position, but would like the players to get more benefits," he said.