The Pakistan Super League, similar to the Big Bash League in Australia, is a major tournament for the cricket-loving nation, in which hardly any international cricket has been played since an attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in 2009.
The ‘cricket drought’ seems to be ending as more and more cricketers are coming to Pakistan and playing the gentleman’s game.
Not only are they participating in matches, but some are even enjoying the local traditions and appreciating the values that Pakistani citizens hold dear.
Speaking with SBS Urdu, Pakistani sports journalist Mirza Iqbal Baig praised the role of international players for improving Pakistan’s image by playing the country's big league.
“International star Shane Watson, Fawad Ahmed who plays for Australia, New Zealand star Luke Ronchi, British player Alex Hales and many other big names have come to Pakistan to celebrate at the cricket festival."
Mr Baig said that we are witnessing an important moment in cricketing history as star international players are participating in Pakistan’s cricket league.
“Pakistan has hosted eight matches in its largest city, Karachi.
“The national stadium has been packed in all the matches with crowds hungry to watch their players clash in their favourite sport.”
Phil Salt of Team Islamabad United attends a practice session ahead of Pakistan Super League remaining matches, in Karachi, Pakistan. EPA/SHAHZAIB AKBER Source: EPA
Will other countries come to play in Pakistan again?
Mr Baig said that it is too early to tell whether international teams are on their way, but many international players have individually gone to play in Pakistan. It's an important sign for the game and domestic hopes are now high to see international matches in the country.
“All the international cricketers who came to Pakistan are paving the way for international cricket here.
“From 3rd March 2009 till today, there hasn’t been a complete series played on Pakistan’s soil.”
“In 2015, the Zimbabwean cricket team did visit Pakistan and played in Lahore. Then World no. 11 boosted the game. Similarly, the Sri Lankan team played T20 in Lahore too.
“Recently, the West Indian team visited Karachi to play matches at the National Stadium.”
Talking about the fan fever, Mr Baig said that people are excited to watch international teams play at local stadiums.
“People from all over the country and abroad have come to watch leagues matches in Karachi.
I am very hopeful about the revival of international cricket and a complete series by having in different cities.”
Note: SBS Urdu interviewed the sports journalist before the PSL final match.
Cricket fans cheers while waiting their turn for security check outside the National Stadium in Karachi, Pakistan, March 9, 2019.(AP Photo/Fareed Khan) Source: AP
