Windies cricket chief hopeful for Nov series after 'first-class' security in Pakistan

LAHORE: With the successful conclusion of the Independence Series between Pakistan and World XI, hopes for more international matches at home in future have received a boost.

West Indies cricket boss Dave Cameron believes there is no reason his players will not be convinced to undertake a tour to Pakistan late November for a series of three Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).

During a press conference here Friday evening with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Najam Sethi, Cameron expressed his pleasure following the series, noting that "everything looks good".

“From what I have seen, I am very convinced. Hospitality has been great and security has been first-class,” he said.

Explaining how the presence of Darren Sammy and Samuel Badree in the World XI squad will encourage the players back home, Cameron stated, “If I have come over [to Pakistan], I am sure it will help convince my players. InshaAllah, in November, we will be here for a couple of games,” he commented.

However, the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) chief made it clear that the tour depends on the security reports after the conclusion of Independence Cup, mentioning that the Board does not intend to force any player who doesn’t wish to undertake the tour.

“We had a security team here to oversee the final of PSL (Pakistan Super League). Now, overseeing these matches, their report will determine how FICA (Federation of International Cricketers' Associations) and our players' association would decide on West Indies team’s proposed tour to Pakistan,” he said.

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Cameron highlighted that the system in the West Indies cricket scene is different, where "we have to respect the players' decision", compared to Pakistan "where PCB makes all the decisions".

Nevertheless, Cameron stated that he was personally sure his team will visit Pakistan.

Sethi, on the other hand, said the WICB boss had requested him to convince the players with regard to the tour's safety and security.

“Dave has said that, InshaAllah, he will bring the West Indies team to Pakistan for a three-match tour late November,” he explained.