I'd travel to Pakistan but I'd be scared: Andre Russell

West Indies and Islamabad United all-rounder Andre Russell who is a globetotter playing T20 leagues around the world yesterday said though he would be willing to travel to Pakistan if the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is played there in the next season, but is “scared”. Russell said he believes so from what he has heard in the media about security situations in the country.

“Based on what I have heard and stuff you know, I mean, I am going to be scared obviously,” he told ESPNcricinfo, answering a question on if he would agree to play in Pakistan?

“But, for some reason, I would go to Pakistan. But listen, I am going to be scared. That’s the thing.”

The question popped up since Najam Sethi, the chairman of PSL, had earlier stated that it is a part of their plan to host a few matches in the major cities of Pakistan in the following season of the PSL.

Russell further explained the reason for his fear, of travelling to Pakistan. “It is like me going to Iraq based on what I have heard about Iraq. You are going to have nice places in Iraq. You are going to have nice places in Pakistan. I’ve seen pictures, beautiful places, beautiful people. But it is [about] what is surrounding [them],” he said.

He also said that it’s similar to the perception people have for his home Jamaica. “A lot of crime going on in Jamaica. I’m from Jamaica. I’m going to tell, Jamaica is the most beautiful place in the world. You are going to say, “No, but, they are shooting people.” I will say, no, no. Don’t worry. So it is going to be similar [about going to Pakistan]. So if I have to go, I’ll go. But if I don’t have to, I don’t mind.”