T20 series paves the way for the return of international cricket after Sri Lanka terror attack in 2009
Wednesday 4 April 2018 15:31, UK
England's cricketers have been invited to tour Pakistan for the first time in more than a decade following a security crackdown.
Pakistan was a "no-go" area for foreign teams following a terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team bus in Lahore in 2009, which killed seven people.
That led to almost six years of international isolation, with Pakistan playing all bar one series against Zimbabwe at neutral venues in the United Arab Emirates.
But a recent security clampdown was followed by a three-game T20 series against the West Indies in Karachi - opening the door for more international cricket to be held in the country.
"The successful staging of international matches in Pakistan is a clear proof that we have defeated terrorism and extremism," said Pakistan's interior minister Ahsan Iqbal.
"But I also hope that it will not be long before I can welcome an England team to Pakistan. That really is something to look forward to."
England last toured Pakistan in 2005 shortly after the home Ashes victory over Australia, but suffered defeats in both the Test and one-day series.
Security has improved dramatically in recent years, and since 2015 Pakistan has hosted Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, with the finals of its domestic T20 league two years running culminating in the three-match West Indies tour.
West Indies coach Stuart Law praised security arrangements during his team's time in Karachi, saying he hoped their experience would lead to further tours of Pakistan.
"It's a bit daunting for the people outside but once you get here and see for yourself, you feel more confident," he said.
