Mahela Jayawardene likely to lead World XI squad against Pakistan

Former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene might lead the World XI squad that will travel to Pakistan to play three T20 matches in September. As per the ICC’s statement earlier, all three games will be given international status and will be played at Lahore’s iconic Gadaffi Stadium. This tour is an effort from the ICC to bring back international cricket to Pakistan.

Following the 2009 attacks on the touring Sri Lankan team’s bus, cricketers have been reluctant to travel to Pakistan citing security issues. Pakistan were since forced to adopt the UAE as their new home for playing cricket. International cricket has practically dried up in Pakistan, Zimbabwe being the only Test-playing nation which toured the country in 2015 for a full limited-overs series.

Following Pakistan’s recent success in the ICC Champions Trophy, the nation will be boosted to see their team go up against a World XI team, especially if it is led by Mahela. The Sri Lankan legend is one of the most accomplished cricketers the island nation has produced, and he will certainly light up the stage in Lahore.

According to reports from the PCB, Lahore will host the ICC’s World XI team on September 21, 23 and 27 for three T20Is. The players will take the field amidst beefed up security, as was provided for the final of the PSL this year.

Sarfraz Ahmed looks forward to World XI clash

The skipper of the Pakistan team Sarfraz Ahmed was hopeful of seeing more Test-playing nations come to Pakistan to play cricket. He believes the World XI T20s will be the stepping stone for the return of international cricket to the country. “I hope this win will boost Pakistan cricket and all the (major) playing nations will come to Pakistan,” said Ahmed after the final of the ICC Champions Trophy in London.

“We’re scheduled to have a World XI in Pakistan in September for three Twenty20 games. So hopefully that starts paving the way for future tours. We can only hope,” added Pakistan’s coach Mickey Arthur.

Interestingly, Mahela Jayawardene was part of the ill-fated Sri Lankan team which was attacked by militants back in 2009. One of the team members was injured by gunshots, and the Sri Lankan team were flown out of Pakistan immediately.