Thaindian News

Dubai, July 12 (ANI): The ICC today welcomed the initiative currently underway in England as Pakistan hosts Australia in a two-Test series beginning on Tuesday at Lord’s. With international matches not currently possible in Pakistan, the ICC has been playing a leading role in ensuring that Pakistan cricket continues to thrive at international level.

“It is vital for the overall good of our great sport that the international cricket community rallies around Pakistan at what continues to be an extremely difficult time for the sport in that country,” said ICC Chief Executive Haroon Lorgat.

“That is why we are so pleased this series is going ahead. It is helping to keep the game strong at the highest level and I would like to thank all those involved in organising these Tests at Lord’s and at Headingley.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board, Cricket Australia, the England and Wales Cricket Board, the MCC and Yorkshire County Cricket Club all deserve acknowledgement for the role they have played in making this series happen.

“I encourage cricket-lovers worldwide, especially in England, to come out in force to watch these two great teams go head to head in what is the pinnacle format of our great sport.

“It is a wonderful opportunity for Pakistanis and Australians living in England to support their teams, as indeed it is for anyone who enjoys watching live top-level sport. Both sides can boast a number of proven match-winners and it promises to be an enthralling series,” said Mr Lorgat.

“It’s fitting that the series is being sponsored by the MCC Spirit of Cricket initiative. This is a prime example of how ICC Members work together in great spirit for the good of the game. While staging international cricket inside Pakistan is not possible at present, it is essential that Pakistan plays international cricket albeit at neutral venues. In that sense, this series is a triumph for the spirit of cricket,” he added. (ANI)