Lorgat right man to assist PPL: Ijaz Butt

Former PCB chairman terms ex-ICC chief ‘very useful’.

KARACHI: Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt, who once considered Haroon Lorgat as the ‘enemy of Pakistan’s cricket’, declared the ex-International Cricket Council (ICC) chief executive ‘the right man’ to help with the organising of the Pakistan Premier League (PPL).

Lorgat visited the PCB headquarters in Lahore where he shared his expert opinion on launching the PPL next year.

According to speculation, the PCB is considering giving an important role to Lorgat with reports suggesting that the South African could be hired as a consultant for the proposed league.

Butt backed Lorgat’s involvement in the league.

“What happened is in the past,” Butt told The Express Tribune. “Lorgat is a gentleman and I have good relations with him. This event holds a lot of significance for cricket in Pakistan and Lorgat can play a useful role in making it a success.

“He has expertise in handling administrative affairs. Add to this his relations with others boards which could also be beneficial. It’s a wise step by the PCB to invite him. If the board succeeds in roping him in a major role, it would be a big boost for the PPL.”

The PCB is planning on holding the inaugural league in March next year following the tour of South Africa.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 19^th, 2012.