Australia call off Bangladesh tour over security concerns

Australia have called off their tour of Bangladesh due to concerns over player safety following a security threat.

The tour, which would have included two Tests, was due to begin with a warm-up match in Fatullah on Saturday.

However, the squad's planned departure last Sunday was postponed after the Australian Government updated its travel advice for the region.

On Wednesday, the Bangladesh Cricket Board had promised "VVIP" treatment for the Australian team, saying they would be given the same level of security afforded to visiting heads of state - but it has not been enough to persuade Cricket Australia to go ahead with the tour.

"This has been a very difficult decision," said Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland in a statement. 

"Following the most recent information from Australian Government agencies and our own security advisors, we have decided that, regrettably, we have no alternative but to postpone the tour.

"Over the last few days we have sought to obtain as much information as possible about the risks for Australians travelling to Bangladesh.

"We had hoped that the security concerns would fade, but unfortunately the advice we have received from government, our own security experts and independent security advisors has clearly indicated that there are now high risks to our people should they make the trip.

"We have worked tirelessly to try to find a way for the tour to proceed, but in the end it was simply not possible. Given the situation, we have now advised the BCB and the International Cricket Council of our decision.

"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."

Travel warnings have also been issued by the UK, USA and Canadian governments.