'Historic Test to strengthen cricketing ties between two nations'

Cricket Ireland (CI) Chief Executive Warren Deutrom believes that the historic inaugural Test will improve cricketing relations between the two countries. He was also positive about the prospects of a future tour of Pakistan if the security situation permits.

Since the attack on the Sri Lankan team in 2009, there has been dearth of international cricket in Pakistan.

It was not until 2015 that Zimbabwe toured Pakistan for three ODIs and couple of T20Is matches in a bid to resume cricket in the country. Although short visits by the World XI and Sri Lankan team in 2017, West Indies in 2018 and PSL matches of the past two seasons have revived cricket on home soil but lack of a full bilateral tour still remains a hurdle.

In an interview, Deutrom said that he did meet with Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) Chairman Najam Sethi during the Dublin Test but could not confirm whether Sethi had officially invited Ireland for the tour of Pakistan during his meeting with the home board’s counterpart, Ross McCollum.

Although he reiterated the fact that any such offer will be positively considered when the time comes.

He added that Ireland will be keen on visiting Pakistan once the PCB is convinced that the security situation and other relevant matters are properly addressed. It must be noted that Sethi had also earlier indicated that the chances of a team visiting Pakistan for a full tour is possible in 2020.

The Irish board also appreciated the efforts of the players and the support staff in making the first-ever Test in their history a massive success.