Sri Lanka set to play an international game in Pakistan

Following the success of the recently concluded Independence Cup played between a World XI side and Pakistan, the PCB is set to host another international game very soon. Sri Lanka is due to play a full series against Pakistan and talks of scheduling a T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore are moving towards a positive conclusion.

The smooth operation of the World Series has instilled confidence in international teams to start looking at Pakistan as a safe country to tour. Member of the World XI, Grant Elliot, had termed Pakistan as safe a country as any to play cricket in during his stay in the country for the 3-match T20 series.

“With the successful hosting of three match T-20I series between Pakistan and World XI in Lahore last week, the PCB was ready to host Sri Lanka for at least one T-20I match next month,” said Director Media and Coordination, Amjad Hussain, at the logo unveiling ceremony for Pakistan-Sri Lanka series, quoted PCB.

Inzamam lauds PCB, sponsors

Chief selector of Pakistan, Inzamam Ul Haq praised the Board and the parties responsible to get cricket back in the country after fans were deprived of witnessing quality cricket at home for more than 8 years.

“Pakistan was starved of hosting international cricket for quite a long period, but with the sheer hard work of PCB headed by Chairman PCB Najam Sethi, the World XI team had made a successful visit to Lahore recently. He said, similarly the sponsors too have played a very important role in Pakistan’s cricket.”

Ironically, it was the Sri Lankan team which was attacked by terrorists during their tour of Pakistan in March 2009. After that brutal attack, international cricket was never played in the country under the approval of the ICC. With the security having improved immensely, Sri Lanka might tour the country for a solitary game.

Final T20I in Lahore

According to the FTP, Sri Lanka are due to play two Tests, 5-match ODI series and 3-match T20I in the UAE. The first Test will begin on September 28 at Abu Dhabi. The last game of the T20 series, which will be played on October 29, might be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.