Sri Lanka ready to hold Champions Trophy

convince apprehensive cricketers on touring Pakistan for next month's Champions Trophy, Sri Lanka Friday said it was readyto hold the tournament even at a short notice.

"We are ready to hold the Champions Trophy as we are the alternate venue for the tournament," Sri Lanka Cricket ChiefExecutive Duleep Mendis said.

"We are in a position to hold the Champions Trophy as Sri Lanka is the alternative venue for the I.C.C. event," headded.

S.L.C. officials feel that all the grounds are in good condition as the Indian cricket tour is currently on in SriLanka.

Meanwhile, a meeting took place on Wednesday at the I.C.C.'s offices in Dubai to discuss the preparations for the Champions Trophy The event, which is scheduled from September 11 to 28, is facing an uncertain future after Australia, England, South Africa and New Zealand, raised concerns over touring Pakistandue to the security situation.

This is despite the I.C.C. taking a decision on July 24 to hold the championship in Pakistan after getting assuranceof full security to the players.

The meeting Thursday at Dubai discussed feedback from task team briefings with stakeholders from England, Australiaand New Zealand.