New Zealand Cricket Offices Hit By Earthquake

New Zealand Cricket Offices Hit By Earthquake

Haroon Lorgat: "It’s a helpless feeling but I will be discussing with the organisers of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 how we can most appropriately remember those who lost their lives or have been injured and affected when the Black Caps play their next match against Australia in Nagpur on Friday."

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has issued a statement expressing condolences and sympathy following the devastating earthquake that has hit Christchurch in New Zealand.

The ICC reported that New Zealand Cricket (NZC) offices in Christchurch were hit but nobody was injured - a fortunate situation that was tragically not mirrored elsewhere in the city, with many others killed, injured and rendered homeless.

ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat revealed that when New Zealand play Australia in their next ICC Cricket World Cup match on Friday 25th February, an 'appropriate' gesture would be made.

"At times like this, sport can only offer its support and its deepest sympathy to those who have lost loved ones during such a tragedy," he said.

"It’s a helpless feeling but I will be discussing with the organisers of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 how we can most appropriately remember those who lost their lives or have been injured and affected when the Black Caps play their next match against Australia in Nagpur on Friday.

"We have already contacted the New Zealand Cricket’s Chief Executive Dr Justin Vaughan to express our concern for him, his staff and the people of Christchurch. The news we have is that the NZC offices have been severely damaged but thankfully everyone who works for NZC seems to have escaped without injury.

"On behalf of everyone at the ICC and the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 we send our heartfelt condolences."

The earthquake, which struck at 1251 local time, was measured at 6.3 on the Richter scale and hundreds of people are feared buried under rubble.

© Cricket World 2011