England cut ties with Zimbabwe

England officially suspended cricket relations with Zimbabwe today and are now in "detailed discussions" to bring another team here early next summer.

With the British Government making it clear that Zimbabwe's 2009 tour should not go ahead on moral grounds, ECB bosses at Lord's swiftly confirmed that plans for two Tests and several one-day internationals against them in May have been cancelled. The most likely replacements are Bangladesh.

"The ECB deplores the position in Zimbabwe and, like Cricket South Africa, finds this untenable," said an ECB statement. "Therefore, all bilateral arrangements are suspended with Zimbabwe Cricket with immediate effect."

The statement added that the ECB "welcome the Government's decision and share the Government's concerns about the deteriorating situation and lack of human rights in Zimbabwe."

Next week, the International Cricket Council will decide whether to suspend Zimbabwe from all cricket. If they do not - and seven of the 10 full member countries must agree - then the spotlight will switch to next June's Twenty20 World Cup in England.

The British Government have not specifically stated what their stance will be on Zimbabwe cricketers visiting for a global event, but the belief is that they will not be admitted. Andy Flower, who five years ago wore a black armband to mourn the death of democracy in Zimbabwe, now envisages the death of his country's cricket.