Pakistani cricket captain Sarfraz Ahmad (R) and International World XI captain Faf du Plessis hold the Independence Cup trophy during a press conference at the Gaddafi Cricket Stadium in Lahore on September 11, 2017.
A World XI squad comprising 13 players from seven top cricket-playing nations landed in Lahore early on September 11 amid massive security, with Pakistan hoping the tour will end years of international isolation. / AFP PHOTO / AAMIR QURESHI (Photo credit should read AAMIR QURESHI/AFP/Getty Images)
The game on Tuesday night between Pakistan and World XI was much more than just a cricket match of 20-overs a side.
It marked the full fledged return of the game to Pakistan after years, and for millions of fans back home in Pakistan, it was a happy home coming. To watch their cherished stars, play right in front of their eyes after such a painful exile, was surely an emotion too overwhelming.
A lot of credit for this should be given to the initiative taken up by the World XI side. With international teams unwilling to come to Pakistan to resume bilateral ties, the World XI members took it upon themselves to be a part of the historic series.
The first game saw Pakistan dominate throughout, as led by a fantastic batting performance from Babar Azam, the hosts amassed a colossal 197 in 20 overs. In response, due to some accurate bowling, the World XI outfit was restricted to 177, handing Pakistan a victory by 20 runs.
Post the loss; skipper Faf du Plessis admitted that playing in front of such a passionate Pakistani crowd was a fine experience indeed.
“It was a good game, and I thought Pakistan played really well. They have great variations in their bowling attack, and ours was probably a bit one-dimensional. We got starts, but couldn’t kick on,” said du Plessis.
The South African added that the World XI members would seek a turnaround for the next game soon.
Pakistani spectators cheer as they watch the first Twenty20 international match between the World XI and Pakistan at the Gaddafi Cricket Stadium in Lahore on September 12, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / AAMIR QURESHI (Photo credit should read AAMIR QURESHI/AFP/Getty Images)
“Quick turn-around and make sure we rest up and come fresh tomorrow. It’s great to play in front of the Pakistani crowd, and hopefully, the stadium will be full for the next two games,” said du Plessis.
Krishna Chopra
A cricket enthusiast who has the passion to write for the sport. An ardent fan of the Indian Cricket Team. Strongly believe in following your passion and living in the present.
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