Independence Cup trophy unveiled

One of the most anticipated series of recent past, Independence Cup will kick off on Tuesday where Pakistan will line up against a World XI. This game will mark the return of top flight cricket in Pakistan after international cricket was suspended post the terror attack on the Sri Lankan team in March 2009.

It has been a long wait for the crowds as well as the Pakistan cricketers. Sarfaraz Ahmed will lead his side on his home soil for the first time, a feat Misbah Ul Haq – the greatest captain of Pakistan – could achieve just once during his career. The series is in focus not just in Pakistan but all around the world. Every cricket fan wants cricket to return in the country which has produced so many heroes over the years.

World XI in Lahore, trophy unveiled

The 14-man squad, coached by Andy Flower, arrived in Lahore on Monday morning. The security was at an unprecedented level as promised by the PCB. Later in the afternoon, the trophy was unveiled and both captains, du Plessis and Sarfaraz, posed with the silverware ahead of the media.

The PCB is hoping to use this series as a catalyst for future international tournaments. The Board is already in talks with West Indies and Sri Lanka to tour the country very soon. Earlier, PCB chief Najam Sethi thanked the ICC and all involved participants for making this series a reality.

The World XI consists of a few top players in the world at the moment. The likes of Hashim Amla, David Miller, Tamim Iqbal, Imran Tahir and Morne Morkel make a very strong touring side. Pakistan will have to play well to win against this side.

All three 3 T20s will be held at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The action will kick start tomorrow and the rest of the games are scheduled to be played on Wednesday and Friday.