England Lions arrive back in UK from UAE

The England Lions squad and staff have arrived back in the UK following the cancellation of the rest of their limited-overs series against Pakistan Shaheens in the United Arab Emirates.

England's development team - coached by Andrew Flintoff - had been in Abu Dhabi for the 50-over leg of their white-ball series.

They had been scheduled to play the second of those matches on Sunday, but it was cancelled after missile strikes across the Middle East.

Iran launched attacks throughout the region, including in the UAE, in response to American and Israeli strikes across its territory.

The party of 25 England Lions players and coaches boarded a commercial flight out of Abu Dhabi on Tuesday and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said they have now safely touched down in the UK.

"We are grateful to all those who provided assistance and advice while the squad were in Abu Dhabi, and who helped ensure their safe return," the ECB said in a statement.

"Our thoughts are with all those currently still in the Gulf who are seeking to return to the UK, and we hope they are able to get home soon."

While most of the Iranian attacks appear to have been intercepted so far, some of the UAE's most iconic buildings have been damaged - including the Fairmont The Palm hotel in the luxurious Palm Jumeirah area and the Burj Al Arab hotel.

Dubai International Airport has also been hit along with Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said the decision to call off the series with England "was mutually agreed" as they make arrangements to bring home their contingent.

"The safety, security and wellbeing of the players and support staff remain the highest priority for the PCB," added the PCB.

"The PCB remains in constant contact with the team management and players to ensure appropriate measures are in place to bring team back to Pakistan."

England won the three-match T20 series against Pakistan Shaheens 3-0 and were 1-0 up in the five-match 50-over series.

Nottinghamshire have cancelled their pre-season tour to the UAE, which was set to start on Monday.