Pakistan gears up for the upcoming World XI tour

Pakistan has been deprived of cricketing action on their soil for nearly a decade in the aftermath of the horrific militant attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore, in 2009. However, the drought is about to end as cricket, yet again, has succeeded in transcending barriers and the World XI is all set to tour the nation for the three-match Independence Cup T20I series. The country is currently gearing up for the much-anticipated cricketing extravaganza amidst tight security.

The World XI side is going to be a star-studded team, including the liked of Hashim Amla and David Miller from South Africa, Tamim Iqbal from Bangladesh and Australia’s George Bailey. The side will be captained by the Protean cricketer, Faf du Plessis. The bowling attack comprises talented players like South Africa’s Morne Morkel and Imran Tahir, along with Australian Ben Cutting and West Indies’ Samuel Badree and Darren Sammy. As a further attraction, former England captain, Paul Collingwood will emerge from his retirement and take part in the series for the World XI.

Pakistan prepares for cricketing action after a long time

The PCB chairman, has expressed his elation at the upcoming series and said, “I am positive that this series will serve to open the doors of international cricket in Pakistan. As a precautionary measure, security is being ramped up, to ensure seamless cricket. Near about 8,000 police and paramilitary forces have been entrusted with the responsibility of guarding teams as they’re transported back and forth from Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. As additional safety measure, roads and shops situated around the stadium will be closed and the spectators will have to pass through multiple security checkpoints.”

The International Cricket Council (ICC) had extended a hand of support towards the series, giving it the much needed strength. As reported by Dawn, ICC Chief Executive, David Richardson said, “The ICC wants to see regular international cricket being played safely in all its member countries and the World XI playing in Lahore is a step towards that for the PCB. We are optimistic that this will be the next step in a steady and safe return of international cricket to Pakistan.”