A welcome breakthrough

Zimbabwe have confirmed a tour of Pakistan next month

The much maligned Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is closing in on a major breakthrough as Zimbabwe have confirmed a tour of the country next month. PCB Chairman Shahryar Khan had met the Zimbabwean cricket authorities on the sidelines of the recent ICC meeting in Dubai and assured them of fool proof security for their team. While this is a major breakthrough and could pave the way for the return of international cricket to the country, the disappointing aspect is that Karachi has been stripped off the list of venues to host Zimbabwe, with the series now being confined only to Lahore. Karachi’s commissioner had promised top-notch security for the tourists but the PCB claims the Zimbabweans are not convinced about touring the metropolis.

The tourists are expected to play three One-Day Internationals (ODI) and two Twenty20 games at Gaddafi Stadium, the headquarters of Pakistan cricket. Only five years ago, the ghastly terror attack on the Sri Lankan team occurred just outside the venue. The PCB cannot afford to be lax about any aspect of the tour at any stage. Other than ensuring the best possible security, the Zimbabweans must be given an opportunity to experience traditional Pakistani hospitality since this tour can go a long way in the gradual reinstatement of international cricket. On the cricketing front, the tour is an ideal opportunity for the Pakistan ODI and Twenty20 squads to regain their confidence after the woeful defeats against Bangladesh. Youngsters like Mohammad Rizwan, Saad Nasim and Sami Aslam can cement their spots in the 50-over format while other newcomers also have a great opportunity to cement their places in the limited-overs teams. The series is going to be of vital importance for head coach Waqar Younis, provided he is able to hang on to his position since there is growing dissent amongst players and some board officials regarding the way he has handled the national team on the tour to Bangladesh. 

Published in The Express Tribune, April 30^th, 2015.

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