A successfully organised series between Pakistan and World XI might have paved the way for the return of international cricket in Pakistan, but the cricket boards are making it clear that they do not force their players to tour the country.
Sri Lanka and West Indies are scheduled to visit Pakistan this year for T20Is, but officials from both the boards have insisted that the players’ security will be of utmost priority. Earlier this month, Sri Lanka team manager Asanka Gurusinha had said the team would visit Pakistan for the T20I match only after getting the clearance from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and after being convinced of the security arrangements. And now Cricket West Indies chairman Dave Cameron has said that the players will not be forced to go to Pakistan.
“We want to ensure that when the players come over, everyone actually wants to come and enjoy the experience, and we don’t want to be seen to be forcing anyone,” said Cameron who was recently in Pakistan to attend the last T20I.
“We’ve had Darren Sammy and Samuel Badree here, and they’ve loved it. Sammy’s on his second trip and I think that will also convince the players that it is safe to come,” he added.
He further expressed his satisfaction over the security provided in Pakistan
“We’ve had the security team here for the final of the Pakistan Super League and they’ve seen these matches as well,” he said
“Here, Pakistan’s board makes decisions [regarding where to tour]. My board’s a little bit different, with the West Indies Players’ Association also having a big say and we have to respect their decision.
“From what I believe I’m very convinced. The hospitality has been great, and the security has been first-class, and from where I stand right now, everything looks good,” he added.