Wellington: Members of Bangladesh cricket team escaped from a mosque that was targeted by active shooters in Christchurch on Friday, killing 27 persons and injured others.
According to local media reports, the team were about to go inside the mosque when the incident happened.
Left-handed batsman Tamim Iqbal took to twitter to share his horrific experience, he said, "Entire team got saved from active shooters!!! Frightening experience and please keep us in your prayers."
New Zealand police asked people to avoid the area. "We have a critical incident in Deans Ave Christchurch. Please avoid the area. We will give more in the near future," Canterbury Police NZ said in a tweet.
According to the cricinfo, the Bangladesh team is in lockdown mode in their dressing room at the Hagley Oval after reports of shooting at the nearby mosque.
Mosque attack: Bangladesh's New Zealand tour called off
Bangladesh's tour of New Zealand was called off in the wake of an attack on a mosque which killed at least 27 people and injured several in Christchurch on Friday.
The team was about to enter the mosque to offer prayers when the incident occurred but escaped to the nearby Hagley Oval. According to ESPNcricinfo, they are currently in lockdown at their team hotel.
While extending their condolences, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) cancelled the Hagley Oval.
"A joint decision has been taken by NZC and the BCB to cancel the third Test match due to start tomorrow at Hagley Oval. Both groups of players and support staff are safe and secure," NZC said in a statement.
Arrangements are being made for the return of the Bangladesh team home as soon as possible, it added.''We are shocked and appalled as I am sure all New Zealanders are,'' said NZC CEO David White.
''We are offering support to all those within the teams affected by the situation and are continuing to take advice from authorities on the ground,'' the statement concluded. (UNI)