Afridi bids to get cricket back to Pakistan

KARACHI: Flamboyant all-rounder Shahid Afridi Saturday said he was trying to bring international cricket back to Pakistan and a number of foreign stars have shown an interest.

Pakistan has been a virtual no-go for international sides since the Sri Lanka team bus was attacked in Lahore in March 2009, killing eight people and leaving seven visiting players and their assistant coach wounded.

“All of us have to make efforts to bring international cricket back to Pakistan,” Afridi, who said he has talked to a number of foreign players about an exhibition competition, told AFP.

“I have spoken to a number of top players from different countries and have got good feedback on travelling to Pakistan for a double-wicket competition,” said Afridi, 31.

Afridi said New Zealand?s Daniel Vettori and Jacob Oram, West Indian Chris Gayle and some Australian players including paceman Shaun Tait were among those with whom he had discussed the proposal.

“Most of them have expressed great interest in the event and in playing in Pakistan so I am seriously planning to organise the event, which can allay players’ fears on Pakistan,” he said.

Afridi added he will also try to convince some Indian players.

Pakistan have been forced to play their home series at neutral venues in United Arab Emirates, New Zealand and England. They are currently playing the second of three Tests against England in Abu Dhabi.

Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Zaka Ashraf has vowed to bring international cricket back to his country and is hoping to have a one-day series with Bangladesh in April. AGENCIES