According to BCCI, there will be no Pakistani players included in the Asia XI that will take on World XI that will take place in March. The matches will take place to celebrate the centenary of Bangladesh founder, Bongobondhu Sheikh Mujbur.
Sri Lanka recently visited Pakistan for a two Test match series and the security arrangements were superb. Pakistani chief Ehsan Mani said that India is much more risker place to travel than India. BCCI joint secretary Jayesh Geroge made it clear there is will be Pakistani players included in the Asia XI. The matches will be given official status by the ICC. With current situation between India and Pakistan not looking good, it is highly unlikely to fill the Asia XI sheet.
“What we are aware of is that there will be no Pakistan players in the Asia XI. That is what the message is, so, there is no question of both countries coming together or picking one over the other. Sourav Ganguly will decide the five players who will be a part of the Asia XI,” he said.
Both India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series for a quite while. They only play in ICC events. The situation between these two countries have worsen.
“By playing such a series, these four countries want to isolate the other member nations, which is not good news. But I think this will be a flop idea like the Big Three model, which was introduced a few years back,” Latif said in a YouTube video.
Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 263 runs in the 2nd Test match played at National Stadium, Karachi. After a horrendous start, Pakistan fought back strongly in the 2nd innings and won the match easily.
“No one should now doubt security arrangements in Pakistan after successful Sri Lanka Test series. This is a turning point for the revival of Test cricket in Pakistan. Media and fans played an important role in portraying a positive image of Pakistan worldwide,” Mani had said.