Zimbabwe cricket team skipper Elton Chigumbura Tuesday expressed optimism to put up a good show against host Pakistan in the upcoming series. Talking to media here at Gaddafi Stadium, Chigumbura said that Zimbabwe have a good mixture and we will give the spectators a good show.
When asked about Zimbabwe team's strength, Chigumbura said: "Everything is our strength." He said: "It will be a good series. They have got new players but we also have a good mixture. Will give the spectators a good show. We will utilise these two days to adjust to the conditions and give our best."
Zimbabwe cricket team manager Christian Chiketa on the occasion expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the government of Pakistan for ensuring foolproof security arrangements for their tour.
Chiketa said, "Cricket unites us as brothers. We hope to put up a good show against Pakistan. Their team is stronger than us but my boys are confident that they will give their best."
When asked about his views on the tour, he said, "This series will be something worth remembering. This is a great opportunity for us. Cricket is our job and we are happy to face a great time like Pakistan."
Answering a question, Chiketa said: "There were some unfortunate events happening in Karachi which unnerved us. Doubts came into the minds of our fraternity but in the end we decided to visit Pakistan. What we want to achieve is to be able to play cricket against our brothers. And regarding the rumours of indemnity, all players are here voluntarily."
He further said they have also experienced international isolation. "Team would say we won't visit Zimbabwe due to security concerns. But we won't let that happen with our brother. You can't kill the spirit of cricket. We are happy that we are contributing to help the youngsters see their heroes perform for them at home."
Earlier, Zimbabwe cricket team left their hotel for practice session in the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore under strict security. The traffic was suspended on the road which leads from the hotel to the stadium. This caused much hardship to people.
Subhan Ahmed, the chief operating officer of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said that this tour will set a precedent and give other (international cricket) teams the confidence to visit Pakistan.
This series marks the return of international cricket to Pakistan after a six-year long hiatus and every effort is being made to make this a successful event.
With top-notch security arrangements in place, the response from the fans has been phenomenal. An estimated 75% of the tickets for the first T20 have already been sold out and authorities are expecting a full house at the Gaddafi Stadium Lahore.
Pakistan Cricket Board has also set up two booths to assist the general public. These booths have been set up near the hockey stadium and at Liberty market.
Keeping in mind the significance of this tour for Pakistani fans across the country, the Pakistan Cricket Board has reached an agreement with the famous online retail network www.daraz.pk and fans can order their match tickets online.
Former cricketers said that this tour would give a boost to dying international cricket in the country. Former Test cricketer Basit Ali said that Zimbabwe's coming tour will be the harbinger of more and more cricketing events in the country.
He was of the view that restoration of international cricket in Pakistan would not only give national cricketers a healthy sports environment but also would promote the soft image of Pakistan in international arena.
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