KARACHI, (Reuters) – Afghanistan are willing to help Pakistan by playing a series of one-day internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 games in the neighbouring country, coach Kabir Khan said yesterday.
Teams have been reluctant to tour Pakistan since six policemen and a driver were killed when militants attacked the Sri Lankan cricket squad’s bus in Lahore last year.
Afghanistan coach Khan, a former Pakistan test player, told Reuters his team were hungry to play against top sides before the Twenty20 World Cup in the Caribbean starts on April 30.
“Pakistan cricket has always been a great supporter of Afghanistan cricket and they helped establish cricket in the war-torn country with financial, moral and technical support,” said Khan.
“The team feels we can also extend a helping hand to Pakistan cricket at a time when they are facing problems. Our team has ODI international status and is willing to play in Pakistan.”
Later this year Pakistan will play two ‘home’ tests against Australia in England.
Afghanistan won last month’s qualifying competition to book their place in the Twenty20 World Cup.
It will be their first appearance in a major ICC tournament.
“The way we have improved and the enthusiasm and talent I see in the side, I am confident this team is capable of upsetting any top team in the World Cup,” said Khan.
