World XI skipper Faf du Plessis feels that their tour of Pakistan is way bigger than that where the crazy fans get a dose of top-flight international cricket.
During a recent press-conference, Du Plessis said, “It is not just about cricket. This short tour is for something bigger. We are just happy that after a long time Pakistani cricket fans can watch the international action at home.”
The World XI squad reached Lahore of Monday from Dubai and were received by PCB chairman, Najam Sethi. The players and officials had a heavy security cover to their hotel where all of their activities were planned for the duration of their stay in Lahore when they play three T20 internationals on September 12th, 13th and 15.
World XI arrival in Pakistan #CricketKiHalalala #PAKvWXI pic.twitter.com/AAcqYyTQmm
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 10, 2017
Since March 2009 when militants attacked the Sri Lankan side near the Gaddafi Stadium, Pakistan was banned to host any international match due to security concerns.
However, the significance of the tour was also highlighted by Du Plessis, he said, “You always try to find things to help you leave your mark – and this seemed like the sort of opportunity to do just that. As a cricketer, in a few years’ time, I will be able to look back and say that I played my part in bringing cricket back to Pakistan.”