"We will provide fool proof security to the players who will travel for the PSL final" : Najam Sethi

[gkb101277867]

"We will provide fool proof security to the players who will travel for the PSL final" : Najam Sethi

Dubai February 7, 2017: The HBL PSL 2017 management organized a ‘meet and greet’ to welcome the foreign players and coaches for the second edition of the tournament that gets underway on Thursday.

Chairman PSL Najam Sethi welcomed foreigners and thanked them for their participation in the league; Mr. Sethi also briefed the gathering about the security plans that are being put in place to ensure a memorable final of the tournament at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on March 5.

“Giles Clarke (Chairman England Cricket Board) and his team visited Lahore last month and were hugely impressed by the security arrangements we made at the stadium and the National Cricket Academy (NCA). The government has also made a huge investment in securing the city and rest assured we will provide fool proof security to the players who will travel for the PSL final.

Additionally we are also having internationally reputed security consultants who will to travel to Dubai in the coming days to allay the doubts and fears of the players. We will provide detailed briefings in the days ahead and the players who travel for the final will be making a monumental contribution for passionate followers of the game in the country.”

Brand ambassador of HBL PSL 2017, former Pakistan captain and renowned commentator Ramiz Raja also spoke to the audience. A resident of Lahore; Ramiz briefed the players about the prevailing situation in the city.

“Lahore is a beautiful city, the perceptions about the place might be muddled, but I can assure you that the players who will travel will be making a priceless contribution to Pakistan cricket. Once you taste the flavour of cricket in the country you will come to realize how welcoming the crowds are. I am hoping that cricket can be brought back to Pakistan, it will be a huge contribution to the emotions of the cricket fans in the country.”

Legendary cricketer and brand ambassador of HBL PSL 2017 and Wasim Akram spoke about the importance of the return of international cricket in Pakistan.

“Growing up I saw legends like Michael Holding, Sunil Gavaskar etc play in the stadiums in flesh which was hugely inspiring. It is imperative that cricket returns to the country, Pakistanis are passionate about the game, my wife who is an Australian is staying in Karachi for the last four years and she is having a great time. Let me also remind you all that the government will do everything possible to ensure the safety of the players.”

Akram reminded the audience about the 1996 World Cup when security situation in Sri Lanka was challenging enough for West Indies and Australia to forfeit their matches in Colombo. A team comprising of six star players each from Pakistan and India travelled to the country to play a solidarity match and change perceptions.

“We played a positive role in 1996 that was warmly welcomed in Sri Lanka. Trust me, the foreigners who travel to Lahore for the final will be given heroic status in the country and their contribution will be remembered by Pakistanis for a long time, the passionate followers of the game will be hugely welcoming and thankful.”

Owner of the Karachi Kings franchise Salman Iqbal and all-rounder Shoaib Malik also spoke to the audience and assured them that Lahore was a safe venue and each franchise owner and management will do everything possible to ensure the safety of the players travelling for the final.

 

[Jabo]

Final won't be played in Pakistan and if it does it's extremely selfish .

 

[gkb101277867]

Final won't be played in Pakistan and if it does it's extremely selfish .

It's already been confirmed for Lahore...

 

[JibranAnsari]

An international skiing competition was successfully held in pakistan and that too in the war hit area swat (kpk) , hopefully foreign players come and play in Lahore.

 

[Abdullah719]

Looks like plans are well underway, the final is less than a month away now.

 

[yasir]

What does "Fool Proof Security" means?? - They sounds like some sort of security standard to which they will comply to, there is no such thing....

 

[Syed1]

Hoping against hope that nothing happens in Pakistan from now till then. We NEED for this to go successfully.


I can't wait for the final in Lahore. It would indeed be a spectacle.

 

[TalhaSyed]

Final won't be played in Pakistan and if it does it's extremely selfish .

What exactly makes it "extremely selfish"?

 

[Hasan123]

Looking forward to the final in Lahore.

 

[Rayyman]

Should just have the final in UAE. No need to risk the safety of the players. It would be a great tragedy if they went to Lahore and something grave happened.

 

[marlonbrowndo]

Final in Lahore will have an amazing atmosphere. Wish I was in Pakistan for this...

 

[Flat_Track_Bully]

It is 2017 now, things have changed massively in Pakistan. 5th fastest growing country in the world, fastest growing asian stock market. One of the most widespread infrastructure development in the world. 80 million middle class people and rising.

We are on a march towards prosperity. Within 5 years the skyline of Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi will transform and we will start becoming like Malaysia.

Now is the time we bring our cricket back.

 

[Thivagar]

I wish the team with Thisara Perera goes to Lahore.

 

[Syed1]

It is 2017 now, things have changed massively in Pakistan. 5th fastest growing country in the world, fastest growing asian stock market. One of the most widespread infrastructure development in the world. 80 million middle class people and rising.

We are on a march towards prosperity. Within 5 years the skyline of Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi will transform and we will start becoming like Malaysia.

Now is the time we bring our cricket back.

Correction: Pakistan is not the fastest growing stock market in Asia, it is the fastest growing stock market in the World.

 

[hitthestump]

Easy there tiger. Corruption is everywhere in Pakistan and the natives are their own biggest enemies. Plus if people were irrational enough to vote for Brexit/Trump what do you think Western perspectives are of Pakistan exactly? Cricket isn't coming back now, or soon for that matter.

The only way we'll get a game of any prosperity on our soil is by offering a large pay packet, heavy security (which isn't even an assurance given they're too busy taking photos of the cricketers whilst on the job) and a guarantee that the players will be on the first flight outta there as soon as the game finishes.

 

[Mamoon]

If it is up to the foreign players and boards, they will never tour Pakistan. The cricketing world doesn't miss out on anything. We are not England, Australia or India. As a result, we have to push them.

Right now, hosting full-scale series against the big teams is out of question, so we have to take incremental steps such as hosting the PSL final and 'buying out' the fears of cash-strapped boards like Zimbabwe etc.

International cricket will return to Pakistan on a full-scale one day, but for that day to come, it is necessary that we take these small risks. Obviously if something bad happens now, we will be pushed back for another 10 years, but what is the alternative? We just can't sit idle. We have to do something.

Thanks to the Army and His Excellency Mr. Nawaz Sharif, the last few years have been quite prosperous by our lowly standards both in terms of security and FDI, which means that we are certainly better placed than we have been at any point in this millennium and there is an air of positivity in the country that we haven't seen for many years.

I believe that by 2025, the likes of Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand etc. will be touring Pakistan across formats and we will be ready to host ICC tournaments. As far as India is concerned, it will depend on a lot of factors but mark my words, I may or may not be around at that time, but the next bilateral series between Pakistan and India will be played in Pakistan.

The Rafi Cricket Stadium in Karachi will also be prepared in due time and it is going to be a state-of-the-art, world class facility which will become the new flagship stadium of Pakistan. In due time, it will make its own history. Here's to good, bright time ahead.

Thank you Raheel Sharif and Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan Zindabad.

 

[Abdullah719]

Bullet-proof bus waits for Brendon McCullum as Pakistan Super League security ramps up

Rushed flights and bullet-proof buses await Brendon McCullum if he can guide his team into the final of the Pakistan Super League.

Officials on Wednesday (NZ time) confirmed their plans to hold the final of the second editon of the Twenty20 tournament in Lahore, despite concerns about security.

The bulk of the tournament will be played in Dubai, starting this week, but PSL chairman Najam Sethi is determined to have the title match on March 5 played at home.

Sethi met with the league's international players on Wednesday – McCullum's brother Nathan, James Franklin and Grant Elliott are the other former Black Caps involved – to reassure them of security measures for the final.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has invested in four bullet-proof buses and PSL officials are considering flying the players from Dubai to Lahore on the morning of the final and out immediately after the game to limit their time in the city.

The government has assured 3000 army and police personnel in Lahore for the final.

Pakistan has been trying to regain the confidence of major foreign teams to restart touring Pakistan since the terror attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in 2009 in Lahore.

Among test-playing nations, only Zimbabwe have toured Pakistan, for three ODIs in 2015. Affiliate members Afghanistan, Kenya, and Hong Kong plus a Malaysian team have also visited.

A report by the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations last month again warned all foreign players from going to Pakistan for security reasons.

Brendon McCullum is captaining the Lahore Qalanders in the tournament as he continues to plunder the world's rich T20 leagues with his aggressive batting and captaincy. He is joined in this team by fellow former Black Cap Grant Elliott.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-heral...um-as-Pakistan-Super-League-security-ramps-up

 

[Flat_Track_Bully]

Easy there tiger. Corruption is everywhere in Pakistan and the natives are their own biggest enemies. Plus if people were irrational enough to vote for Brexit/Trump what do you think Western perspectives are of Pakistan exactly? Cricket isn't coming back now, or soon for that matter.

The only way we'll get a game of any prosperity on our soil is by offering a large pay packet, heavy security (which isn't even an assurance given they're too busy taking photos of the cricketers whilst on the job) and a guarantee that the players will be on the first flight outta there as soon as the game finishes.

Have you seen Brazil lately? Its a free for all over there, people getting killed on the streets. Full of corruption. Law and order is worse than Pakistan. Yet all the sports teams still flock there.

All the western teams still tour Bangladesh even after the recent attack, England team still went.

We can do this. The more players come to Pakistan the more they will see and realise this place is safe for cricket. Like Mamoon said Rafi stadium should be ready in a couple of years and will add to our roster.

Hopefully after the PSL final we can use the money to renovate Gaddafi stadium and convert it back to a 50,000 stadium.

Islamabad surely needs a stadium too and that will most likely happen.

Afghan refugees were causing the terrorism, most of them have been kicked out and you can see the difference already. Only places like Quetta and Peshawar are still a bit volatile but thats because its so close to the Afghan border. Once that border is fully sealed we will rise very quickly.

We need to get SL to tour after PSL and this hopefully will lead to future tours.

I still do not understand why Bangaldesh have not toured. Why would anyone target them and they also have suffered by terrorism. Total politics at work. Pakistan did so much to get them test status.

 

[msb314]

If it is up to the foreign players and boards, they will never tour Pakistan. The cricketing world doesn't miss out on anything. We are not England, Australia or India. As a result, we have to push them.

Right now, hosting full-scale series against the big teams is out of question, so we have to take incremental steps such as hosting the PSL final and 'buying out' the fears of cash-strapped boards like Zimbabwe etc.

International cricket will return to Pakistan on a full-scale one day, but for that day to come, it is necessary that we take these small risks. Obviously if something bad happens now, we will be pushed back for another 10 years, but what is the alternative? We just can't sit idle. We have to do something.

Thanks to the Army and His Excellency Mr. Nawaz Sharif, the last few years have been quite prosperous by our lowly standards both in terms of security and FDI, which means that we are certainly better placed than we have been at any point in this millennium and there is an air of positivity in the country that we haven't seen for many years.

I believe that by 2025, the likes of Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand etc. will be touring Pakistan across formats and we will be ready to host ICC tournaments. As far as India is concerned, it will depend on a lot of factors but mark my words, I may or may not be around at that time, but the next bilateral series between Pakistan and India will be played in Pakistan.

The Rafi Cricket Stadium in Karachi will also be prepared in due time and it is going to be a state-of-the-art, world class facility which will become the new flagship stadium of Pakistan. In due time, it will make its own history. Here's to good, bright time ahead.

Thank you Raheel Sharif and Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan Zindabad.

Bhai darao math - hope it is not that long since you are only 26 years old (same as me).

Agree with everything else - iA it will happen just have to be patient.

 

[msb314]

Rushed flights and bullet-proof buses await Brendon McCullum if he can guide his team into the final of the Pakistan Super League.

Officials on Wednesday (NZ time) confirmed their plans to hold the final of the second editon of the Twenty20 tournament in Lahore, despite concerns about security.

The bulk of the tournament will be played in Dubai, starting this week, but PSL chairman Najam Sethi is determined to have the title match on March 5 played at home.

Sethi met with the league's international players on Wednesday – McCullum's brother Nathan, James Franklin and Grant Elliott are the other former Black Caps involved – to reassure them of security measures for the final.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has invested in four bullet-proof buses and PSL officials are considering flying the players from Dubai to Lahore on the morning of the final and out immediately after the game to limit their time in the city.

The government has assured 3000 army and police personnel in Lahore for the final.

Pakistan has been trying to regain the confidence of major foreign teams to restart touring Pakistan since the terror attack on the Sri Lanka team bus in 2009 in Lahore.

Among test-playing nations, only Zimbabwe have toured Pakistan, for three ODIs in 2015. Affiliate members Afghanistan, Kenya, and Hong Kong plus a Malaysian team have also visited.

A report by the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations last month again warned all foreign players from going to Pakistan for security reasons.

Brendon McCullum is captaining the Lahore Qalanders in the tournament as he continues to plunder the world's rich T20 leagues with his aggressive batting and captaincy. He is joined in this team by fellow former Black Cap Grant Elliott.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/timaru-heral...um-as-Pakistan-Super-League-security-ramps-up

?? I am confused by the this title??

Is McCullum the only player to have agreed to come to Pakistan for the final or is he only being referenced as Lahore are likely candidates to reach the final?

 

[moghul]

Final won't be played in Pakistan and if it does it's extremely selfish .

You seems to have some personal issue with Pakistan and I feel sorry for you, as things are getting better in Pakistan.

 

[Sub-Zero]

final will happen in Lahore and cricket will return to Pakistan soon

 

[moghul]

Should just have the final in UAE. No need to risk the safety of the players. It would be a great tragedy if they went to Lahore and something grave happened.

Negative and ridiculous post. Even war torn countries regain normalcy after some time, look at SL and Vietnam progressing now. Security situation has vastly improved in Pakistan and if PCB is taking small step with adequate preparation, nothing wrong with that. Foreign players still have a choice and no one will force them. Even with no foreign player it would be a great step forward for Pakistan cricket.

 

[Sub-Zero]

Even with no foreign player it would be a great step forward for Pakistan cricket.

I think a lot of the foreign players have agreed to play in Lahore

 

[moghul]

Final in Lahore will have an amazing atmosphere. Wish I was in Pakistan for this...

Why not, its Pakistan's "super bowl".

 

[hur rizvi]

Final won't be played in Pakistan and if it does it's extremely selfish .

There is nothing selfish about it. Players who are not willing to play shouldnt be forced, if they are being forced then it can be called selfish.

 

[gkb101277867]

Gadaffi stadium capacity is only 27000 that's dreadful. Lahore needs a 60000 capacity stadium for such events

 

[waleed88]

PSL final is gonna be an event for 3-4 hours.. and you need to provide security for 12 hours max... I think it can easily be provided and go incident free as far as I'm concerned...

 

[Flat_Track_Bully]

We are not Aleppo or Paris. We can do this.

 

[Abdullah719]

Australian T20 star Shane Watson noncommittal on prospect of playing PSL final in Lahore

SHANE Watson loves the Pakistan Super League and is inspired by how much the country’s fans adore cricket — but he’s still torn over the prospect of playing in the volatile nation next month.

For the second year in a row Watson is playing for Islamabad United, who beat the Quetta Gladiators in the tournament final in Dubai last year.

As it stands, the final of this year’s PSL will be played in the Pakistani city of Lahore.

The rest of the tournament, which commences on Thursday, will be hosted in the United Arab Emirates.

Playing the final in Lahore would be a major step forward for cricket in the country.

Pakistan has only hosted one international series since 2009, when Sri Lanka’s tour bus was fired on by terrorists in Lahore.

Several Sri Lankan players and support staff were injured in the attack, as was reserve umpire Ahsan Raza, who travelled in a van in with match-officials in the same convoy.

Two civilians and six police officers were killed.

The country’s cricket board (PCB) has invested heavily in security over the last few years, but the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations warned players in January that “an acceptable level of participant security and safety cannot be expected or guaranteed” for the final in Lahore.

Understandably, Watson is not ready to commit to playing should Islamabad reach the final again.

“I’m still up in the air with what I’m personally going to do,” Watson, who toured Pakistan with an Australia A side in 2005, told foxsports.com.au.

“Pakistan’s people just absolutely love cricket … it’s very sad for their cricket-loving fans how volatile their country has been because they haven’t been exposed to live cricket at this level for quite a while.

“It would be awesome to be able to go for them.

“But just from a security point of view you want to be absolutely sure it’s safe to go. Especially at this stage in my life, having a young family, I don’t want to take heightened risks.”

http://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket...k=e9824ae6b7c988f0b6d5d7fc9bfd515c-1486559918

 

[moghul]

SHANE Watson loves the Pakistan Super League and is inspired by how much the country’s fans adore cricket — but he’s still torn over the prospect of playing in the volatile nation next month.

For the second year in a row Watson is playing for Islamabad United, who beat the Quetta Gladiators in the tournament final in Dubai last year.

As it stands, the final of this year’s PSL will be played in the Pakistani city of Lahore.

The rest of the tournament, which commences on Thursday, will be hosted in the United Arab Emirates.

Playing the final in Lahore would be a major step forward for cricket in the country.

Pakistan has only hosted one international series since 2009, when Sri Lanka’s tour bus was fired on by terrorists in Lahore.

Several Sri Lankan players and support staff were injured in the attack, as was reserve umpire Ahsan Raza, who travelled in a van in with match-officials in the same convoy.

Two civilians and six police officers were killed.

The country’s cricket board (PCB) has invested heavily in security over the last few years, but the Federation of International Cricketers’ Associations warned players in January that “an acceptable level of participant security and safety cannot be expected or guaranteed” for the final in Lahore.

Understandably, Watson is not ready to commit to playing should Islamabad reach the final again.

“I’m still up in the air with what I’m personally going to do,” Watson, who toured Pakistan with an Australia A side in 2005, told foxsports.com.au.

“Pakistan’s people just absolutely love cricket … it’s very sad for their cricket-loving fans how volatile their country has been because they haven’t been exposed to live cricket at this level for quite a while.

“It would be awesome to be able to go for them.

“But just from a security point of view you want to be absolutely sure it’s safe to go. Especially at this stage in my life, having a young family, I don’t want to take heightened risks.”

http://www.foxsports.com.au/cricket...k=e9824ae6b7c988f0b6d5d7fc9bfd515c-1486559918

That's fair, if Watson doesn't feel comfortable, he doesn;t need to go, its just cricket, we won;t keep any grudge against him. Some , whoever will feel comfortable will go some not, but its just a matter of time, everyone will be on board, in near future.

 

[Flat_Track_Bully]

That's fair, if Watson doesn't feel comfortable, he doesn;t need to go, its just cricket, we won;t keep any grudge against him. Some , whoever will feel comfortable will go some not, but its just a matter of time, everyone will be on board, in near future.

If he doesn't want to go them dump him. Why give him money when he just wants to play a few matches in UAE and do nothing to support a country thats paying him.

Lahore is not aleppo and security is assured. I don't understand whats going through these foreign players minds. They will stay in a nice 5 star hotel and play a match then go home. If any of them don't want to do that then dump them. We are being treated like fools.

 

[Abdullah719]

If he doesn't want to go them dump him. Why give him money when he just wants to play a few matches in UAE and do nothing to support a country thats paying him.

Lahore is not aleppo and security is assured. I don't understand whats going through these foreign players minds. They will stay in a nice 5 star hotel and play a match then go home. If any of them don't want to do that then dump them. We are being treated like fools.

The foreign players are not in your position to know the details of the situation on the ground. They know what they're told by the media and player associations. Add that to the SL attack (yeah I know it was 8 years ago) and it's understandable that unless they feel 100% safe, they will have doubts.

 

[Syed1]

The foreign players are not in your position to know the details of the situation on the ground. They know what they're told by the media and player associations. Add that to the SL attack (yeah I know it was 8 years ago) and it's understandable that unless they feel 100% safe, they will have doubts.

I think we have ourselves to blame as well. We keep saying the city would be shut down, presidential level security would be provided, half the crowd would be security guards etc etc. Which gives the impression that if these measure weren't taken there would be an explosion every other minute (God forbid).

It is a catch 22 situation you have to provide immaculate security but you also have to give the impression of 'normalcy'.

I long for the day when you walk into Nandos on Boat Basin and the entire South African team is having dinner there. Those were the days yaar.

 

[Syed1]

How many died in Berlin? How many died in Paris? How many died in Bangaldesh?

Go tell him not to go there too.

Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg are all within the top 20-30 most dangerous cities in the world. I don't see the Australians having a problem playing there.


Don't believe me? Search "Most dangerous cities in the world" on Google. There are proper studies on this subject.


However, the media (local and international) has portrayed that every Pakistani walks around with a suicide vest on his belly.

 

[gkb101277867]

How many died in Berlin? How many died in Paris? How many died in Bangaldesh?

Go tell him not to go there too.

Berlin and paris? I might as well tell him not to go to new york because of 9/11. The point is these are isolated incidents. In Pakistan, attacks such as these are not isolated incidents.

And one more thing...when was an international sports team attacked in these places? Never

 

[Flat_Track_Bully]

Berlin and paris? I might as well tell him not to go to new york because of 9/11. The point is these are isolated incidents. In Pakistan, attacks such as these are not isolated incidents.

And one more thing...when was an international sports team attacked in these places? Never

Stats say Pakistan is as safe as 2006. Its been 8 years since the attack on SL team and a lot of progress has been made and its visible.

One rule for us and another for others I see.

 

[JibranAnsari]

Its a two sided sword , if it happens then it can do wonders for us but if it does not then the other nations will follow the precedent of psl foreign players refusing to play a single t20 match in lahore.

Pakistan is doing good at a few things , though things aren't any better for the people of pakistan at the moment but still we can show a few roads and an excellent stock market performance. Also first time in the history of pakistan a prime minister is going to be punished soon for corruption which will send a great message to the world as a fair country.

 

[gkb101277867]

Stats say Pakistan is as safe as 2006. Its been 8 years since the attack on SL team and a lot of progress has been made and its visible.

One rule for us and another for others I see.

One rule for us and another for others? Clearly not. Which of those places you mentioned included an attack on a visiting international sports team? That is a significant question you chose to ignore.

 

[ahsan17]

One rule for us and another for others? Clearly not. Which of those places you mentioned included an attack on a visiting international sports team? That is a significant question you chose to ignore.

The attack was 8 years ago. Lot has changed since then. It's time to get up with the times and look at the situation as it is currently instead of continuing to dwell on things that are nearly a decade old now.

 

[gkb101277867]

The attack was 8 years ago. Lot has changed since then. It's time to get up with the times and look at the situation as it is currently instead of continuing to dwell on things that are nearly a decade old now.

Just pointing out that it makes it more significant when comparing to the attacks in paris and berlin. That poster claimed he didnt understand what those foreign players are thinking if they are considering not coming to Lahore. I, however, can understand their concerns

 

[Flat_Track_Bully]

Just pointing out that it makes it more significant when comparing to the attacks in paris and berlin. That poster claimed he didnt understand what those foreign players are thinking if they are considering not coming to Lahore. I, however, can understand their concerns

Fine judge Pakistan for eternity over this.

Going by your argument this has been the only time in Pakistans history this has happened so yes it is an isolated incident.

 

[gkb101277867]

Fine judge Pakistan for eternity over this.

Going by your argument this has been the only time in Pakistans history this has happened so yes it is an isolated incident.

Erm terrorism is not an isolated incident in Pakistan. And I am not judging for eternity. I am a pakistani myself lol (well a British pakistani anyway). I support cricket returning to Pakistan. Its just you made it sound like foreign cricketers are mad if they are considering not going to lahore which is unfair. I can understand if they dont feel comfortable with going there thats all

 

[ahsan17]

Erm terrorism is not an isolated incident in Pakistan. And I am not judging for eternity. I am a pakistani myself lol (well a British pakistani anyway). I support cricket returning to Pakistan. Its just you made it sound like foreign cricketers are mad if they are considering not going to lahore which is unfair. I can understand if they dont feel comfortable with going there thats all

The metric that you and the cricketers (and ICC, FICA) need to look at is that casualties from terrorism are down 75% since 2009. We are witnessing similar casualties that we did in 2006, when all teams were willing to tour Pakistan.

 

[Flat_Track_Bully]

Erm terrorism is not an isolated incident in Pakistan. And I am not judging for eternity. I am a pakistani myself lol (well a British pakistani anyway). I support cricket returning to Pakistan. Its just you made it sound like foreign cricketers are mad if they are considering not going to lahore which is unfair. I can understand if they dont feel comfortable with going there thats all

You are a bit simple. I blame our community for this situation and Ijaz Butt and Zaka for this mess.

There was no damage control after that incident and the govt don't have a dedicated media cell to promote soft image of Pakistan. We need to go on a massive PR drive rather than silly youtube videos. Buy some airtime of top tv channels around the world.

This is a perception issue. Ground reality is vastly different. We are ready to host cricket. Its up to these foreign players to understand they will be absolutely fine and will enjoy it there.

They must think Pakistan is like Somalia with no to hotels or restaurants. Times have changed. If they can go to BD they can come to Pak.

 

[ahmedzee]

I went to Pakistan after a long time this time. I found the security situation has improved indeed. There would also be theft and all, but I really think it has improved from "terrorism" point of view.

Lahore, Pindi, Islamabad, and some other cities are definitely very safe. I saw check points, police, rangers almost everywhere. I think it is time that cricket can return.

Infact, I can go on and say, I felt safer in Pakistan than in States.

 

[wasimjunior]

If he doesn't want to go them dump him. Why give him money when he just wants to play a few matches in UAE and do nothing to support a country thats paying him.

Lahore is not aleppo and security is assured. I don't understand whats going through these foreign players minds. They will stay in a nice 5 star hotel and play a match then go home. If any of them don't want to do that then dump them. We are being treated like fools.

You keep saying alleppo but there was an attack on the srilankan players and someone was hurt.

Last time Zimbabwe came there were rumours of a blast outside the ground.


The guy plays cricket hes not a soldier.

 

[Zak_Fan]

If he doesn't want to go them dump him. Why give him money when he just wants to play a few matches in UAE and do nothing to support a country thats paying him.

Lahore is not aleppo and security is assured. I don't understand whats going through these foreign players minds. They will stay in a nice 5 star hotel and play a match then go home. If any of them don't want to do that then dump them. We are being treated like fools.

Because it is players like him that give PSL some relevance. They have already played their part by being a part of the tournament, and if I was a Pakistani, I would be thanking them for that.

 

[ahsan17]

You keep saying alleppo but there was an attack on the srilankan players and someone was hurt.

Last time Zimbabwe came there were rumours of a blast outside the ground.


The guy plays cricket hes not a soldier.

As said earlier, the attack on Sri Lankan players was nearly 10 years ago now. It's illogical to use that as an excuse indefinitely. The ground reality needs to be looked at now as opposed to what it was in 2009.

With respect to Zimbabwe team, the blast was thwarted, yes? It wasn't successful. It's silly to say "Pakistan lacks security", but when the security actually works, you say "well there was a blast". Also interesting to note that since 2015, there has been a further 33% decrease in casualties from terrorism. Pakistan today is literally as safe as it was when all teams were willing to tour Pakistan.

 

[Syed1]

Because it is players like him that give PSL some relevance. They have already played their part by being a part of the tournament, and if I was a Pakistani, I would be thanking them for that.

Did we beg them to play in the PSL? They themselves asked for their names to be included in the draft. There are many that put their names in but didn't get selected.

 

[Abdullah719]

PSL: Pakistan promise head of state-level security to foreign cricketers for Lahore finale

New Delhi: In a desperate bid to convince the world that Pakistan is a safe place, the country's cricket board has promised highest level of security to foreign players playing in their flagship tournament.

On Wednesday, the organisers of Pakistan Super League (PSL) announced that the tournament finale will be held in Lahore. Every other match will, however, be played in United Arab Emirates (UAE) like in the previous edition.

It will be a huge task for the organisers even to convince the players to visit the city. The violence-hit country has not hosted a high-profile foreign team since a 2009 gun and bomb attack on the Sri Lankan cricket side that killed eight people and injured nine others, including visiting players.

But, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assured highest level of security, which is comparable to the protocol provided to any visiting head of state.

"The transportation of the cricket players from hotel to stadium to hotel will be in bullet-proof buses escorted by heavy police contingents," PCB`s senior media manager Raza Rashid told AFP.

Earlier this year, the PCB had rejected the advisory given by the Federation of International Cricketers Association’s (FICA) which called on international players against visiting Pakistan.

In between, PSL chairman Najam Sethi has said that a special draft may be held for the final from a pool of players who are ready to play in Lahore.

The second season of the tournament will start tomorrow in Dubai with Islamabad United taking on Peshawar Zalmi.

Five franchises are taking part in the tournament.

http://zeenews.india.com/cricket/ps...ign-cricketers-for-lahore-finale_1975016.html

 

[Varun]

?? I am confused by the this title??

Is McCullum the only player to have agreed to come to Pakistan for the final or is he only being referenced as Lahore are likely candidates to reach the final?

The website in question is stuff.co.nz, so it's obviously written from a Kiwi perspective.

 

[The_Odd_One]

If it is up to the foreign players and boards, they will never tour Pakistan. The cricketing world doesn't miss out on anything. We are not England, Australia or India. As a result, we have to push them.

Right now, hosting full-scale series against the big teams is out of question, so we have to take incremental steps such as hosting the PSL final and 'buying out' the fears of cash-strapped boards like Zimbabwe etc.

International cricket will return to Pakistan on a full-scale one day, but for that day to come, it is necessary that we take these small risks. Obviously if something bad happens now, we will be pushed back for another 10 years, but what is the alternative? We just can't sit idle. We have to do something.

Thanks to the Army and His Excellency Mr. Nawaz Sharif, the last few years have been quite prosperous by our lowly standards both in terms of security and FDI, which means that we are certainly better placed than we have been at any point in this millennium and there is an air of positivity in the country that we haven't seen for many years.

I believe that by 2025, the likes of Australia, England, South Africa, New Zealand etc. will be touring Pakistan across formats and we will be ready to host ICC tournaments. As far as India is concerned, it will depend on a lot of factors but mark my words, I may or may not be around at that time, but the next bilateral series between Pakistan and India will be played in Pakistan.

The Rafi Cricket Stadium in Karachi will also be prepared in due time and it is going to be a state-of-the-art, world class facility which will become the new flagship stadium of Pakistan. In due time, it will make its own history. Here's to good, bright time ahead.

Thank you Raheel Sharif and Nawaz Sharif.

Pakistan Zindabad.

I am not sure if this is a serious post or sarcasm. Have not been to Pakistan in over a decade so I do not really know how safe it is out there now. From whatever I hear or read in the news, there are still terror attacks, suicide bombings, and target killings happening in Pakistan. I am sure most of the overseas players have the same info and most will not be willing to go play one match (final) in Pakistan when they are already getting paid.

 

[The_Odd_One]

Because it is players like him that give PSL some relevance. They have already played their part by being a part of the tournament, and if I was a Pakistani, I would be thanking them for that.

This is strange logic TBH. It is not like they are not getting paid for playing in the PSL. Next time I will hear that my employer should be thanking me to come to work today.

 

[Yaasir]

Definitely things are a lot better in Pakistan now thanks to Raheel Sharif and in particular, Lahore has progressed a lot under Shahbaz Sharif. Lahore is definitely the safest city in Pakistan right now.

 

[Saj]

Feel uncomfortable about this pressurising of foreign players to play in Pakistan.

 

[Mamoon]

I am not sure if this is a serious post or sarcasm. Have not been to Pakistan in over a decade so I do not really know how safe it is out there now. From whatever I hear or read in the news, there are still terror attacks, suicide bombings, and target killings happening in Pakistan. I am sure most of the overseas players have the same info and most will not be willing to go play one match (final) in Pakistan when they are already getting paid.

Serious post. All the issues that you pointed out still exist but they have been greatly reduced. Suicide bombings and terrorist attacks where at its peak during 2008-2013, but since the APS attack, the Army has managed to cripple the militants and suicide blasts are quite rare these days.

Back then, people used to fear going out to restaurants and malls etc. because a bomb could blow up any time, but now people don't have such fears. Of course anything can happen any time, but it's true for Europe as well, which has seen more terrorists attacks then Pakistan in the last couple of years.

The main problem is the perception of the outsiders. Pakistan has a very grim global image and people think of it as a haven for terrorists. Now changing this perception when you still have an incident or two every now and then is going to be a challenge, which is why I believe that it is going to take another 7-8 years before teams are willing to tour Pakistan. But, as I said, we have to push them by taking incremental steps.

Nonetheless, I can say with conviction that given the security situation right now and the caliber of the Armed Forces, Pakistan is ready to host international events right now.

 

[Haroon786]

Cricket: Could Kiwis return to play in Pakistan?

Four former Black Caps are in contention to be the first New Zealanders in more than 13 years to play a top level cricket match in Pakistan.

Brendon McCullum, James Franklin and Grant Elliott (Lahore Qalandars) and Nathan McCullum (Quetta Gladiators) will play in the five-franchise Pakistan Super League Twenty20 competition starting today.

Twenty-three of the 24 tournament matches will be split between Dubai and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, but Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium - named after the late Libyan dictator following his speech supporting Pakistan's right to nuclear weapons in 1974 - has been approved to host the final.

Pakistan last hosted a test in 2009 when gunmen attacked the Sri Lankan team bus. Zimbabwe played one-day and Twenty20 internationals at Lahore in 2015.

New Zealand last visited Pakistan in December 2003 for an ODI series. Their last test was at Lahore in May 2002, before a bomb blast outside their Karachi hotel curtailed any chance of a second match.

PSL chairman Najam Sethi briefed participants about security.

"The government has made a huge investment in securing the city and we will provide foolproof security to players who travel for the final.

"Additionally, internationally reputed security consultants will travel to Dubai in the coming days to allay the doubts and fears of the players."

His claims were endorsed by former Pakistan captain, Lahore resident and tournament ambassador Ramiz Raja.

"The perceptions about the place might be muddled, but I can assure you that the players who travel will be making a priceless contribution to Pakistan cricket. Once you taste the flavour of cricket in the country you will realise how welcoming the crowds are."

New Zealand Cricket Players' Association boss Heath Mills said none of the players' contracts compelled them to go to Lahore for the final.

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"FICA [the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations] received independent security advice which recommended that no player travel to play in Pakistan. That advice was sent to all players, and they can make individual choices from there."

Former New Zealand cricketer Lou Vincent visited Lahore's national academy as Hong Kong's batting coach in February 2012, prior to his match-fixing ban.

Despite being a survivor of the 2002 bombing, he advocated Pakistan's return as an international host.

"We were treated like royalty, right from immigration to the hotel," Vincent said at the time.

"Safety is still a big aspect of operating there. Road blocks and checkpoints are everywhere."

http://m.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11797391

 

[moghul]

Cricket and Lahore, international cricket community has no idea what they have been missing for years, but no one else to be blamed. It was our own mess and I'm sure will be all cleaned up in near future.

 

[moghul]

Because it is players like him that give PSL some relevance. They have already played their part by being a part of the tournament, and if I was a Pakistani, I would be thanking them for that.

They are not doing us any favor by playing at UAE, they are just professional players, playing to earn some money there. It would be a different story if they go to Lahore. But, again, foreign payers have a right to refuse travelling to Lahore if they don;t feel comfortable although, Lahore, IMO is now as safe as any international city.

 

[Analyze1]

I am not sure if this is a serious post or sarcasm. Have not been to Pakistan in over a decade so I do not really know how safe it is out there now. From whatever I hear or read in the news, there are still terror attacks, suicide bombings, and target killings happening in Pakistan. I am sure most of the overseas players have the same info and most will not be willing to go play one match (final) in Pakistan when they are already getting paid.

well youn heard wrong my friend the news are fake its safe Allhamdulliah

 

[Mamoon]

Blast in Lahore, pretty much ends the possibility of hosting the final this year.

Things just get better and better. First the fixing scandal and now this.

 

[RYASIR]

Psl final over in lahore

There was a security alert from last one month.. this shows the security lapse how will you provide the fool proof security mr. Najam sethi

 

[ExpressPacer]

Blast in Lahore, pretty much ends the possibility of hosting the final this year.

Things just get better and better. First the fixing scandal and now this.

Terrible news. Can't explain how disappointed I am.

Anyway, hope all is well and there are no casualties.

 

[Mamoon]

Anti-state elements could not digest Pakistan in relative peace.

 

[ExpressPacer]

Anti-state elements could not digest Pakistan in relative peace.

I understand what you're getting at and I cannot agree more. Could it possibly be an external source of terrorism?

 

[Mamoon]

I understand what you're getting at and I cannot agree more. Could it possibly be an external source of terrorism?

We don't need external enemies when we have plenty of internal ones. I know people will blame India for this, but it is enterily our own undoing. No external source/influence.

Obviously with the intention of creating chaos and ensuring that the PSL final is not held in Lahore. The timing and location of this attack is obviously not coincidental.

 

[DRsohail]

better to be let it held in UAE..our country is not safe a bitter truth...if ur provicial assembly building gets attacked then what can is ay..

 

[ExpressPacer]

We don't need external enemies when we have plenty of internal ones. I know people will blame India for this, but it is enterily our own undoing. No external source/influence.

Obviously with the intention of creating chaos and ensuring that the PSL final is not held in Lahore. The timing and location of this attack is obviously not coincidental.

Very true. We need to completely exterminate internal factors before having the audacity to blame anyone else.

However, you never want to rule out a possibility as it is likely considering external agencies are not very fond of cricket coming back to Pakistan. Or tourism and everything else to do with it, for that matter.

 

[Hawkeye]

Sad!
Low chances now.

 

[DRsohail]

We don't need external enemies when we have plenty of internal ones. I know people will blame India for this, but it is enterily our own undoing. No external source/influence.

Obviously with the intention of creating chaos and ensuring that the PSL final is not held in Lahore. The timing and location of this attack is obviously not coincidental.

the pmln provincial goverment hasnt done anything against punjabi millitants group...if peshwar becomes so peaceful then lahore should be better but no vision fom pmln and u know the shobazis........

 

[Naim]

not it is looking impossible

 

[SL_Fan]

Five-layer security, sniffer dogs, temporary hospital in place for PSL final


Unprecedented security arrangements have been put in place for Sunday’s Pakistan Super League (PSL) final at the Gaddafi Stadium, the likes of which have never been seen here during the Test or ODI matches, even when the Indian cricket team toured here in 2004.

For the first ever time, a five-layer security is being provided to the two domestic teams which will also feature four foreign cricketers each. The army personnel, rangers and police officials have completely cordoned-off the area and their vehicles are frequently patrolling the stadium.

NADRA, too, has deployed its four mobile database vans in the stadium to check against any fake NICs then and there.

A temporary 25-bed hospital has also been set up at the National Hockey Stadium, adjacent to Gaddafi Stadium, to meet any medical emergency. It will be working 24 hours.

The PCB’s own bullet proof buses will be used for carrying the teams from their hotels to the stadium and back. The sniffer dogs, which were also used when India toured here in 2004 are visible in good number at the Gaddafi Stadium.

There are also reports in the media that gas supply to the surrounding areas is also suspended for the last three days in order to avoid any mishap such as gas cylinder blast etc.

Meanwhile, the DSNGs of the electronic media channels have not been not allowed to enter the Nishtar Sports Complex and have been forced to park at the roundabout near the Liberty Chowk. A shuttle bus service is being provided to the ticket-holders from their parking stands to respective enclosures and then back to the parking areas. Media personnel, too, will be allowed to avail the shuttle service.

The PSL final will surely mark the first occasion when top three officials of the country — the President of Pakistan, the Prime Minister and the Army chief - will be present at the Gaddafi Stadium to witness the match.

Though the tour of Zimbabwe cricket team for ODIs and T20s back in 2015 had failed to restore the confidence of foreign cricket teams to resume their tours to Pakistan, the PSL final is seen as another significant attempt by the authorities to convince the cricketing world about the safe environment for sports in Pakistan and allay their fears and security concerns.

It may be mentioned here that since 2009, when the terrorists carried out an attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore - international cricket has not returned to this country, causing severe financial setbacks to the PCB and depriving millions of cricket fans of top class competitive cricket.

A a spokesman for the PCB announced here here on Friday that the PSL finalist teams will not be holding press briefings for the media here on Saturday.

Quetta Gladiators, the first team to have reached the final, have already arrived in Pakistan from the UAE on Thursday while the second finalist will reach the country on Sunday morning.

Meanwhile, Provincial Law Minister Rana Sanaullah has said cellphone service will not be suspended in Lahore on the day of the final.

Talking to the media at the Gaddafi Stadium on Friday, the minister said high security would not only be in place for the stadium but for the entire city.

Link

 

[Mamoon]

No stone has been left unturned. Impeccable measures, not even a rat can trespass the security officials.

Really proud of the government MashAllah, but most of all Mr. Najam Sethi, without whom the PSL would not have happened and he was the first one to propose the idea of playing the final in Lahore this year.

Pakistan Zindabad.