In a move that has shocked the cricketing world, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has asked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be the host of a ‘home’ series against the nation.
According to well-informed sources, the PCB chairman, Zaka Ashraf, made the offer to BCCI president, Narayanaswami Srinivasan at the sidelines of the ICC meeting, which were held last weekend in Dubai.
“Ashraf told Srinivasan that Pakistan would be willing to play its future home series on Indian soil if the Indian board was ready to play hosts,” a source said.
“Ashraf has the backing of the Pakistan government in his endeavours and he apparently had a pleasant discussion with the Indians in Dubai,” the source added.
Ashraf, also stated that if the BCCI agreed to host the series, the PCB, would take care of all the expenses.
“Ashraf also told the Indian board President and ICC President, Sharad Pawar, that if India agreed to host Pakistan’s ‘home’ matches the PCB would pay for all the expenses involved in the venture. Clearly Ashraf wants resumption of bilateral cricket with India and believes if India agrees to play host to Pakistan’s home matches, the ice will break between the two boards,” the source said.
Since 2009, Pakistan have been forced to play all their tours at neutral places, after the Sri Lankan team were attacked by gunmen in Lahore.
Pakistan have played most of their home matches in the UAE, but, have also held series in England and New Zealand, since they do not want their national team being deprived of playing the sport.
In August this year, Pakistan will play host to Australia in Sri Lanka, since the Australians refused to go into the nation, due to security concerns.
Pakistan captain, Misbah-ul-haq, has also called for an improvement in bilateral ties with India recently, since he believes that it will improve political and cricketing relations between the two nations.