Pakistan ready to help Sri Lanka in difficult times

Sri Lanka is currently suffering from a severe economic and political crisis and uncertainty hangs over hosting international cricket teams

PHOTO: AFP

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is ready to help Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) in difficult times and are ready to play under any conditions.

In an informal conversation with reporters, PCB Director Media Samiul Hassan Burney said that it is too early to say anything about the Pakistan Test team's tour of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is currently suffering from a severe economic and political crisis these days which has increased the unrest among the people. There have been protests against the government while only 12 hours of electricity is being provided to the locals.

"We have a very strong relationship with the Sri Lankan Board, the two countries have always supported each other in difficult situations," Burney said.

"In the past, tours have been held in a tense situation, Pakistan did not refuse to play there despite difficult conditions, Sri Lanka also toured Pakistan," he added.

He further added that Pakistan would not refuse to play the series in July and August.

"SLC, viewing its circumstances, would take a decision which will be accepted, including playing on their grounds or neutral venue," he concluded.

Remember, Pakistan will now only play two Tests on the tour of Sri Lanka. SLC had requested PCB to remove three ODIs which was accepted.

The future of international cricket in Sri Lanka depends on the Australia tour. If the Aussies say no to the island nation, the hosting of the Asia Cup in August/September will also be in jeopardy. Cricket Australia (CA) is reviewing the situation and will make the final decision soon.

Due to power shortages in the country, hosting day-night matches are uncertain. SLC uses its own generators, but the fuel shortage can be the main hindrance.

Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and the BCCI have already expressed concern over the situation in Sri Lanka. At the end of the Indian Premier League (IPL), whether the event will be held in Sri Lanka or not will be decided. United Arab Emirates (UAE) has already been selected as an alternative venue.