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Cricket

'Kya hai pakistani team me, lappu si team hai, zingur se players hai' - Fans react as PCB demands written security assurance for ODI World Cup in India

In preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup, Pakistan's participation has been a subject of discussion and planning

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Pakistan Cricket Team

Pakistan Cricket Team (Source: Twitter)

In preparation for the upcoming ODI World Cup in India, Pakistan's participation has been a subject of discussion and planning. A high-level committee, headed by the Foreign Minister of Pakistan, was tasked with making the decision regarding the cricket team's travel to India.

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Given the sensitive political relations between the two neighbouring countries, the committee carefully considered all aspects before granting conditional approval for the cricket team's travel to India. The committee's primary concern revolved around the safety and security of the players, coaching staff, and fans during their stay in India.

To address these concerns, the committee decided to approach the Apex Cricket Council, the governing body of cricket, seeking written assurances over the security arrangements that would be put in place for the duration of the tournament. This conditional approval ends the jeopardy over the participation of the Pakistan cricket team in the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Notably, this all started as retaliation from the Pakistan Cricket Board after India decided not to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup. India cited security reasons to avoid travelling to Pakistan for the continental tournament. However, both parties agreed to shift the Asia Cup from Pakistan to Sri Lanka, which led to retaliation from the Pakistan government and Cricket organisation.

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Will Pakistani cricketers travel to India?

This question is still unanswered, as Pakistani players are reportedly unhappy with PCB. Their Central contract has already expired, and players are yet to extend it. It has been reported that Pakistani players are demanding a hike in their pay scale, which is comparatively low among top cricket boards. If PCB fails to convince players, it will be interesting to see how they respond.

It's worth noting that India is set to face Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup on September 2 in Sri Lanka. The Asia Cup will be played from August 30 to September 19 in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Pakistan will host its first four league games in Karachi and Lahore, while Sri Lanka will host other games in Colombo and Galle.

Here is how fans reacted to PCB's decision:

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