The squad will include players from seven countries- South Africa, New Zealand, England, Afghanistan, West Indies, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka; each player has been offered £80,000 for the week-long series. It was reported that the final arrangements concerning Collingwood’s availability were being made yesterday. It is also believed that Hashim Amla, the South African batsman, is one of the cricketers already confirmed to take part in the series.

Solid security

The PCB Chairman Najam Sethi earlier said, “This is a very big thing. September, October, and November are big months. It’s a big agenda, we need your prayers and we will open the doors and international teams will come. Pray that we keep our security solid. The Punjab government has given us the signal and preparations are in full swing.”

Only Zimbabwe and Afghanistan have played cricket in Pakistan in the last 8 years. The PSL final in Lahore earlier this year, provided a huge boost to Pakistan’s preparations for other tournaments.  West Indies have also shown interest in touring the terror hit nation. They are likely to send their squad later this year. But before that, the green army will lock horns with Sri Lanka in their home.