Paul Marsh, the chief executive of the Australian Cricketers' Association, has cast doubt over Australia's participation in the Champions Trophy, after the International Cricket Council (ICC) decided to keep it in Pakistan despite security fears.

Marsh says Australia are assessing their position in the light of yesterday's decision, which was made despite fears for the safety of the players in the venue cities of Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi. And while Marsh says he is disappointed, he will seek further clarification on the situation before making a final decision.

"The ACA continues to have serious concerns with our players touring Pakistan for the Champions Trophy and we are disappointed with the ICC's decision," Marsh said. "We are seeking clarity on the purpose and role of the proposed task force, so we are unable to comment on it at this stage.

"Based on the independent information and advice received, we maintain that the risks are simply too great for the ACA to recommend that our players tour Pakistan at this time.

"We would expect Cricket Australia to adopt the same position. If [the Champions Trophy] continues in Pakistan at this volatile time, unfortunately many of the world's best players won't participate, which is not a good outcome for cricket."

Marsh's comments come after Giles Clarke, the ECB chairman, told ICC board members yesterday that England would be unlikely to send anything approaching their strongest team and that concerns of stakeholders and security experts over safety demand that the tournament be moved elsewhere.

Andrew Symonds, the Australia all rounder, says he remains concerned by the situation.

"It is only a game of cricket at the end of the day," he said. "Putting yourself in a position where you're not safe, is ridiculous."

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