Giles Clarke happy to see international cricket return to Pakistan

ICC director Giles Clarke expressed his delight to see top flight cricket return to the land of Pakistan. He also pointed out that the successful hosting of the PSL final in Lahore was a stepping stone in resorting international cricket in the country. This World Series will be a step further towards normalcy in a cricket frenzy nation.

It was the month of March in 2009 when a bus full of Sri Lankan cricketers was attacked in Lahore by terrorists. It injured a few cricketers and the team was flown out of Pakistan in a state of emergency. Apart from a short tour by a brave Zimbabwe team in 2015, no country was ready to tour Pakistan following the attack despite the PCB offering the highest standard of security.

Clarke acknowledges the role of PSL final

Clarke was in Lahore and addressed a press conference with PCB chairman Najam Sethi ahead of the iconic World XI tour. “It’s been a long road and I’m very happy to see international cricket finally return here,” the ICC director said.

The PSL final was held at the same ground where Sri Lanka were playing a Test match against Pakistan in March 2009. Big cricketers like Darren Sammy, Chris Jordan, and Marlon Samuels participated in the highly anticipated game. Security was given utmost importance which was acknowledged by cricketers around the world.

“Security teams from different countries were present here to review security arrangements for the PSL final, and it was [on that basis that] this World XI tour became possible,” said Clarke.

The World XI squad is coached by former Zimbabwean cricketer Andy Flower. Giles acknowledged Flower’s contribution in making this tour possible.

PCB chief promises more tours in Pakistan

PCB chief Najam Sethi thanked the ICC for making this tour possible besides thanking the cricketers who made it possible He vowed to invite international teams to tour Pakistan in future.

“We welcome you all to Pakistan, and we thank you for making this tour possible,” Sethi said, hailing all those who played a role in restoring global cricket action on Pakistani soil.

“A lot more international cricket can now be expected here next year,” he added.

The participating players, led by Faf du Plessis of South Africa, will be provided ‘Presidential level security’ during their week-long tour where they are scheduled to play 3 T20s against the Pakistan side starting on Tuesday at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.