My congratulations to India for winning the historic one-day series by 3-2 after defeating Pakistan in the fifth match by 40 runs at Lahore.
Every Indian player was committed to win the final one-dayer. They proved this by good fielding, bowling and batting. India played with a plan.
India outclassed the Pakistan side in all the departments of game. Crowd and fans watching on TV will always remember the brilliant catch of Inzi by Sachin Tendulkar, which changed the whole scenario. I am sure the host team must have got the lesson.
Although the target of 293 runs was not tough, the Pakistani top batting line did not bother to stay at the wicket.
However, Shoaib Malik and Moin Khan conveyed, the message to their colleagues how to play in the crisis.
The crowd was disciplined throughout the series. Especially Karachi's crowd took the lead.
The fans appreciated the performance of both the teams. The fans saw good cricket. It is clear that the fans understand, love cricket and cricketers. This is a most encouraging thing.
I request the PCB to include Karachi and Peshawar in the itinerary for Test matches also in the incoming series.
I am sure this series will play an important role to strengthen the relationship between the two neighbouring countries.
We are grateful to Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee for approving Indian cricket team's tour of Pakistan as per schedule.