ABU DHABI: As talks of cricketing revival between Pakistan and India gathers momentum, the Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) has expressed its interest to host the highly anticipated series, if it was planned for a neutral venue.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Zaka Ashraf will be visiting India early next month to hold discussions on the issue. International Cricket Council (ICC) Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat also hoped for a bilateral series in the UAE.
Pakistan and India have not played a bilateral series since 2007 and although Ashraf seemed keen on sending the team across the border – in stark comparison to Ijaz Butt who remained adamant on India touring – the option of a neutral venue cannot be ruled out.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a second home for Pakistan amid drought of international cricket and jumped to the thought of hosting the two countries.
"We will love to host the series," ECB Chief Executive Officer Dilawar Mani told The Express Tribune. "We've hosted memorable matches between the two countries. We've improved our stadiums as per the required standards and are confident that we can hold the series in a befitting manner."
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, seemed reluctant to play in the UAE, with Mani citing financial reasons behind it.
"There are no other reasons behind the reluctance other than financial gain. They prefer playing series at home because of that."
Khalil excited by recall
Meanwhile, Mohammad Khalil, the Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited left-arm seamer, looked forward to the 'unfinished business' following his recall to the national squad after six years.
Khalil last played for Pakistan in 2005 and was named Junaid Khan's replacement for the tour of Bangladesh after the latter picked up an abdominal strain in the One-Day International series against Sri Lanka.
"I'm so excited at my recall," Khalil told PakPassion.net. "It's been six years since I played for Pakistan and I'm pleased to be back in the international reckoning. I wanted to play for my country again as I felt that I have unfinished business."
Khalil currently sits top of the wicket-taker's list in the ongoing Quaid-e-Azam Trophy.
"I've not changed anything technically with my bowling. I'd put my good form down to being more experienced."
Published in The Express Tribune, November 26th, 2011.
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