Elections delayed by the killing of ex-prime minister Benazir Bhutto take place in the country on 18 February.

The Aussies are due to play three Tests, five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 match but several players have raised concerns about travelling.

And Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Nasim Ashraf said: "Cricket Australia said that security briefings are advising them against touring."

Ashraf, who met CA counterpart Creagh O'Connor in Dubai earlier this month, said he had asked the Australians to send a security delegation to Pakistan on 25 February.

The PCB chief insists the situation is not dangerous enough to call off the trip.

"We have told CA that we still firmly believe that the environment for cricket and cricketers is still safe here and they must send their [security] team," he added.

"Incidents could happen anywhere in the world. They happened in Glasgow last year when we were there for a one-day game and bombs went off in England in 2005 when Australia were there.

"We have to make decisions not just on perceptions but on ground realities. We are making every effort to ensure the tour goes ahead. It would be a big loss to Pakistan cricket if they didn't tour."

Australia have not toured Pakistan since 1998 and insisted that games were moved to Sri Lanka and Sharjah in 2002.

Pakistan have ruled out playing at neutral venues this time or switching the series to Australia.

(BBC)

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