Snubbed PCB calls Canada, Afghanistan for tri-nation

Canada confirm entry as Pakistan officials hope for revival.

KARACHI:

If you can’t get the big fish, go for what’s available – a policy which the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has now adopted.

Following the postponement of the Bangladesh tour, the PCB has shifted its focus on the International Cricket Council (ICC) Associate Members as it plans to host a tri-series featuring Afghanistan and Canada.

The board’s determination  in reviving international cricket has led to the plan of staging a multi-nation event. PCB Governing Board member Amir Nawab, also the board’s coordinator on Afghanistan cricket, is playing a crucial role in organising the event.

“We have received a positive response from both teams,” Nawab told The Express Tribune. “Canada has shown interest in sending their senior team and will shortly send a letter to the PCB in this regard.”

Afghanistan, on various occasions, has also expressed its willingness to tour the country following their series of matches against Pakistan ‘A’. Meanwhile, Nawab said the schedule of the tournament was not decided due to a packed schedule of the national team.

“The plan is in its initial stages but we’re looking to host the teams as soon as possible. Our team has a busy schedule and we’ll see when we can host the event.”

Asif not to get Amir-like treatment 

Disgraced Pakistan fast-bowler Mohammad Asif, who is expected to be released from prison today, is unlikely to get the same treatment from the country’s cricket board as his former teammate Mohammad Amir.

While the PCB sympathised with Amir and announced a rehabilitation process for the left-armer upon his release, Asif is not expected to draw the same attention due to his ‘experience’. “Amir got sympathy due to his age,” a PCB official told The Express Tribune. “In comparison, Asif was experienced and got many chances,” said the official, referring to his doping scandals before the spot-fixing charges.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 3^rd, 2012.