Players are keen to do something for Pakistan cricket: Andy Flower

Former Zimbabwe cricketer Andy Flower was recently named as the coach of the World XI side that would take on Pakistan in three T20s next month. The series is going to be a historic one as it would be a comeback for cricket of international sorts back to the Pakistani soil. On Thursday, the PCB announced the 14-man squad for the World XI team.

South African skipper Faf du Plessis will lead the side and Andy Flower will be taking up the coaching responsibilities. As per the recent quotes in Telangana Today, Flower noted that the series is very important for Pakistan cricket. He believes that the fans in Pakistan deserve to see their heroes in action on their home soil.

“This is important both for Pakistan cricket and for Pakistan as a country as a whole. It’s something they’ve been starved off in recent years,” quoted Andy Flower.

On huge sums of money offered

Reportedly, the players of World XI have been offered huge sums of money to play in the series. Flower, who has earlier served as the coach of team England, feels that the things need to be understood beyond the monetary value.

“Of course they are professionals who will be getting paid. But beyond the narrow confines of playing, I sense they are keen to do something for Pakistan cricket. I think there will be a special spirit in the team,” Flower conceded.

On fond memories

Andy Flower recalled how he has some fond memories linked to Pakistan. Back in the year 1995, he had shared a record stand of 269 with his brother, Grant Flower, against Pakistan. He highlighted it as one of the proudest moments of his cricket career. Interestingly, Grant Flower is the batting coach of Pakistan at the moment.

“In 1995, my brother Grant and I shared a record partnership by brothers in a Test (of 269) against Pakistan. He scored a double century and I got a hundred.  That was probably the proudest moment of my playing career,” said the former cricketer.

On Mohammad Amir

He also had a word on Mohammad Amir. When Amir was suspended for his involvement in spot fixing scandal in England, it was Andy Flower, who was the coach of the English side back then. He called the phase as a tumultuous one. However, he added that Amir deserved a second chance and is making most out of it now.

“That was a very tumultuous time for Pakistan cricket. While not condoning in any way what happened, he (Amir) was a young man who made a bad decision. I believe in second chances and it looks like he’s taking his with both hands,” he conceded.