World XI coach Andy Flower, left, displays a match shirt with skipper World XI Faf du Plessis during a news conference in Lahore, Pakistan, Monday, Sept. 11, 2017. Plessis arrived in Lahore early Monday amid tight security to play a three-match Twenty20 series against Pakistan. (AP Photo/K.M. Chaudary)
International cricket is knocking on the doors and its party time for Pakistanis. The series is being termed as a huge leap for Pakistan cricket and rightly so; if conducted successfully, it can open the doors for international cricket and hopefully more international teams will be seen playing in the Pakistani grounds.
For now, let’s focus on what cricket players and commentators from around the world have to say about this historic moment.
Former England coach and the World XI coach, Andy Flower said, “We are here to celebrate Pakistan’s 70th anniversary of independence, play our part in the revival of international cricket in Pakistan, and play some great cricket in front of the Pakistani people”.
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World XI captain, Faf du Plessis said that it is an honour for him to be a part of the team who contributed to the revival of cricket in a country which has been deprived of cricket for a long time. He said
“This will be something that I can say was a huge honour to be a part of. Looking back on my career it’ll be great to say that I made an impact on bringing international cricket back to Pakistan”.
Australian all-rounder Ben Cutting says that he hopes that this series will pave way for international cricket in Pakistan.
The former Pakistan captain and commentator Ramiz Raja says he is thankful to the World XI players for playing in Pakistan. He also tweeted, saying:
England batsman, Paul Collingwood is very excited about playing in front of a passionate Pakistani crowd.
The legendary fast bowler, Wasim Akram, hopes that this series will be the rebirth of cricket in Pakistan.
Wasim’s partner in crime, Waqar Younis, will also be seen in action in the commentary box. His excitement is evident from his tweet.
Mohammad Hafeez also expressed his gratitude to the World XI squad, hoping that they’ll enjoy Pakistanis’ hospitality.
Wahab Riaz encouraged the fans to buy the tickets for the matches to witness the history.
Junaid Khan also welcomed the World XI players.
The two-time T20 World Cup winner, Daren Sammy, is excited to play in Pakistan yet again, saying that this is more than just a game.
Let’s hope that this series turns out to be an epic one and opens the doors for international cricket. The fans have been longing to see their heroes and favorite players for a long time.