Need to prove Pakistan safe for cricket, says commissioner

Chief guest Shoaib Siddiqui (second L) and PCB director domestic Intikab Alam (L) pose with other dignitaries at the opening ceremony of the Pentangular Cup on Wednesday

KARACHI: Karachi Commissioner Shoaib Siddiqui on Wednesday said that cricket was the most popular sport in the country and depriving die-hard cricket fans here of international action was unjust.

“It is now our duty to portray a soft and positive image of Pakistan across the world. We need to show that Pakistan is a safe country for sportspersons,” Shoaib said during the opening ceremony of the Pentangular Cup at the National Stadium on Wednesday.

“Pakistan is safe for sports which is evident from the visit of Kenyan cricket squad earlier this month for five matches,” Shoaib, who was the chief guest on the occasion, said.

PCB director domestic cricket Intikhab Alam, director marketing Badar Rafai, National Stadium manager Arshad Khan, senior focal person Asif Azeem, KCCA secretary Shafiq Kazmi and media manager Shoaib Ahmed were present on the occasion.

“‘Sports for Peace’ is our message. Hosting the Pentangular Cup is an honour for us. The governor and chief minister have also hoped for successful organisation of the tournament,” he added.

He further said that holding of such tournaments on regular basis would help them promote soft image of the country and city.

“Subsequently it will help us in bringing international tournaments back to Pakistan,” the commissioner said.

“This tournament, with the theme of Road to World Cup will also help stir the excitement for the upcoming World Cup both among fans and players and I hope our team will start preparation with passion to win the title,” he added.

After the opening ceremony, one minute’s silence was observed in solidarity with the Peshawar school victims.

Later pigeons and balloons were also set free to promote the message of peace.