Altaf denies rift with Woolmer

Saleem Altaf, Director of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), dismissed speculation and rumours of a rift with Bob Woolmer, the Pakistan coach. Altaf told reporters in Islamabad after inaugurating the national schools championship: "It is a professional relationship between us and I have no differences with him."

There has been constant suggestion within local circles of a rift between the two since Altaf came on board as director last year. Altaf said: "As the director of cricket operations my job is to evaluate his performance."

Altaf praised Woolmer for his performance so far. "We have to accept this that since taking over he has done well and we should give credit where it's due."

Meanwhile, Altaf also revealed that preparations need to begin as far as stadia are concerned in time for Pakistan to host both the 2008 Champions Trophy and a significant portion of the 2011 World Cup. "The Champions Trophy will help us make significant preparations with an eye on the 2011 World Cup."

The PCB is planning to build a new stadium in Islamabad, the capital city, to host matches during the World Cup. Altaf said: "The paperwork of acquiring the land for Islamabad Cricket stadium on lease from the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will be completed in a fortnight or so and work will start thereafter."