By Associated Press
Published: 08:06 GMT, 15 March 2019 | Updated: 08:09 GMT, 15 March 2019
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An international cricket match between New Zealand and Bangladesh has been cancelled after players from the visiting team narrowly avoided a mass shooting at a mosque in Christchurch on Friday.
New Zealand Cricket chief executive David White said there had been a 'joint decision' to call off the third test, which had been scheduled to start on Saturday in Christchurch.
'On behalf of New Zealand Cricket heartfelt condolences to those affected,' White said. 'I've spoken to my counterpart at Bangladesh cricket - we agree it's inappropriate to play cricket at this time. Both teams are deeply affected.
The Bangladesh cricket team were on their way to Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch when a gunman killed 40 people in a mass shooting
A man who identified himself as Brenton Tarrant (pictured) live-streamed the massacre of dozens of people in Christchurch, New Zealand
Witnesses reported hearing 50 shots and police are responding to the incident at Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch on the country's South Island
'We are shocked and appalled as I am sure all New Zealanders are. 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.'
Earlier, members of the Bangladesh cricket team described on social media how they narrowly avoided the mosque shooting on New Zealand's South Island.
Players and members of the team's coaching staff were reportedly on their bus, approaching the Masjid Al Noor mosque in Hagley Park when the shooting started.
Opening batsman Tamim Iqbal tweeted: 'Entire team got saved from active shooters. Frightening experience and please keep us in your prayers.'
