LAHORE: The cricket boards of Pakistan and Afghanistan on Saturday have agreed to play two friendly Twenty20 International apiece on their home soils.
Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shahryar Khan, addressing a joint press conference with his Afghan counterpart, said that Pakistan team will play one T20 match in Kabul,. However, he said the match can also be played in Sharjah.
Afghanistan Cricket Board chairman Atif Mashal said that Pakistan will come to Afghanistan with a message of peace, friendship and brotherhood. He said that is necessary to keep sports and politics separate.
They also agreed to strengthen bilateral cricket relations and host a series in the future. Furthermore, Pakistan will host series between the A and U19 cricket teams. Pakistan will help Afghanistan become a permanent member of the International Cricket Country which it currently has an associate status.
The PCB also agreed to provide biomechanics facility to Afghan players to test bowlers’ actions, and provide training to their umpires, coaches and trainers.
PCB will also work to provide a cricket ground to Afghanistan to use for their tournaments and matches. Shahryar Khan did not name the ground but said that Afghan players will come to the stadium as their own
The Afghan board’s chairman appreciated the support of the PCB and hoped to keep the positive relationship. He also appreciated role of former Pakistan players who coached Afghan team and contributed for the development of cricket in Afghanistan.
PCB Executive committee board chairman Najam Sethi said that official permission is necessary to send the Pakistan cricket team to Afghanistan. He said that government permission is not necessary if the match is held in Sharjah.
Members of Afghanistan Cricket Board visit to Lahore pic.twitter.com/cSXrgI8jBP
— PCB Official (@TheRealPCB) May 27, 2017