Yesterday’s T-20 international match between Pakistan and Zimbabwe was a sign of relief and joy for cricket enthusiasts in Pakistan. After six years, Pakistani cricket fans were able to quench their thirst for the sport, when they witnessed their home side clash against an international team, at home soil. Here are a number of reasons, seven exactly, as to why other international teams such as Australia, India, South Africa, Sri Lanka and New Zealand should cast aside their doubts and play a series in Pakistan!
1. Pakistan’s security agencies are willing to provide foolproof security for the visiting teams
Ever since the unfortunate terrorist attack on Sri Lankan cricket team at Lahore in 2009, international cricket teams have refused to play in Pakistan. However, it must be borne in mind that the ghastly attack, which occurred almost six years ago, has taught Pakistan’s security agencies a valuable lesson; to stay vigilant and provide foolproof security to visiting cricket teams.
2. Cricket in Pakistan has its very own charm!
Pakistan is a cricket-crazy nation, where supporters attend games in huge numbers and witness every cricket series with fervour. We have our very own impressively built stadium, our noisy cheering-and-often-jeering crowds. Cricket in Pakistan is unique and exotic in its very own way!
3. Pakistan’s contributions to the game of cricket
Ever since the country has started to play the game of cricket, Pakistan has made important contributions to it. Pakistan has produced legendary cricketers such as Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis, Javed Miandad, Shoiab Akhtar and Inzamam-ul-Haq. These cricketers entertained audiences throughout the world during their impressive careers, enabling Pakistan to clinch important cricket tournaments. A country that has given so much to the world of cricket, deserves something in return as well!
4. Because Dubai is just not the same!
Dubai might be home for a lot of Pakistanis, who do show up in sizable numbers to cheer their cricketing team, but it is not Pakistan all the same! Our fans, our home, our grounds with our team in it!
5. Pakistani fans love and follow international cricket stars
Pakistani cricket fans love to egg their team on and endorse Pakistan cricket team’s members as national celebrities. However, they also follow international cricketers from India, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, England, West Indies and would love to see them perform live, from the stands. Shouldn’t these cricket stars oblige their Pakistani fans?
6. Operation Zarb-e-Azb has been successful in annihilating militants
Ever since Pakistan Army has launched an offensive military operation against outlawed and banned militants in the country, security situations have considerably improved. Though the APS attack and Ismaili bus attack did create difficulties to an extent, however, on a general scale the security situation has improved in the country. Pakistan’s armed forces and security agencies have the capability to secure and safeguard international teams that tour the country.
7. The lack of cricket in our country is costing Pakistan dearly!
Cricket matches are a great source of earning for a country. Sponsors, cricket boards and various other employment opportunities are lost when countries refuse to tour Pakistan. It isn’t fair that other countries in the world benefit from such facilities and Pakistan lacks in this aspect.
