Pakistan find backing from ICC to host full tours

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has given the green light to Pakistan Cricket Boards to host full series but warned that it might be a long process. Pakistan Cricket suffered for eight years as no teams agreed to tour the country citing security concerns.

During the second T20I between Pakistan and World XI, ICC Chief Executive accompanied former cricketer and renowned commentator and analyst Rameez Raja in the commentary box to discuss in detail about the issue. World XI won the second T20I match to level the Independence Cup series at 1-1.

Richardson visibly appeared satisfied with the security measures taken for the ongoing series and on behalf of the council, the chief executive was prepared to support the board in its bid for revival for Cricket in Pakistan.

“ICC has already agreed to invest in security and develop security capabilities (of Pakistan) for a three-year period. Certainly, I think the intention would be to bring member countries to tour Pakistan, not a World XI tour, and that would be the ideal to have international cricket return to Pakistan in normal circumstances,” claimed Dave Richardson according to Khaleej Times.

Pakistan not ready to host matches in Karachi and Rawalpindi yet

“It’s a long process. This is a stepping stone in the right direction. I think the next step is to improve capabilities to areas and cities outside of Lahore itself,” added Richardson. That said, he stated that it was too early to comment about hosting matches in Karachi and Rawalpindi.

When asked about why no Indian player taking part in the World XI squad, Richardson cited out the disturbed diplomatic status between the countries.

“The fact is you can’t ignore the situation that exists between India and Pakistan at a political level. Any Indian player being part of the tour, you can imagine the focus that would’ve been on that player and the pressures that would’ve brought from the security point of view,” concluded the ICC Chief.