Mickey Arthur hopes 'Independence Cup' would open doors for International Cricket in Pakistan

Pakistan Head Coach, Mickey Arthur, in a recent interview, hoped for full restoration of cricket in Pakistan post- World XI series, scheduled to start in a couple of days. The former coach of Australia and South Africa also kept an eye on the World Cup of 2019, by providing opportunities to youngsters in the upcoming games.

Arthur, after the infamous sacking from the Australian team in 2013, the Protean had his fair share of success with the Pakistani side. Under his guidance, Pakistan reached number 1 in Tests without playing any home matches in Pakistan. The men in green also clinched the ICC Champions Trophy after defeating arch rivals India in the finals.

“It’s very important to us. We want to come into the game hard. We certainly are not taking the game lightly. We want to win the series and win it well. It also gives us the opportunity to have look at the younger players,” claimed Mickey Arthur, according to his interview with Geo TV.

Fresh legs to be infused in the Pakistan team

“The focus on my mind is 2019 World Cup. Through these T20 competitions, we can certainly see how the players react under pressure and see if they can be part of the plans moving forward. So there’s a lot riding on in the series for us,” added Arthur. He was then quizzed whether the Independence Cup is going to help Pakistan restore International cricket at home.

“I Certainly hope so. I never thought I would be able to coach a team in Pakistan in a series. It’s a wonderful privilege and honor, something I’m looking forward to. Let’s hope it opens the doors for future tours because it’s been too long that Pakistan cricket public has been missing out on these opportunities. It gives the younger players and up and coming youngsters, who get the chance to get identified as heroes to the masses,” concluded Arthur.