ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government on Thursday gave permission to its national cricket team to play the World Twenty20 in India next month, quashing rumours that it would boycott the event in response to India refusing to play Pakistan last year.
Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shahryar Khan tweeted: “I am pleased that our government has given its consent for our team to visit India.”
Khan said the International Cricket Council (ICC) has been asked to make special arrangements for the Pakistani cricket team in India.
“PCB will also be expecting visa facilitation and other arrangements for the Pakistani fans wishing to visit India for the ICC World T20,” he added.
Earlier, Khan had indicated that due to strong Pakistan-specific threats in India, a proposal had been sent to the ICC to consider scheduling matches at a neutral venue if the Pakistan government refused to allow the team to play in India.
The PCB had sought approval from the government to travel to India for the World Twenty20 beginning on March 8.Pakistan have been placed in Group 2 and will play matches in Kolkata, Dharamsala and Chandigarh.
The side will not be playing in Maharashtra to avoid protests by the Shiv Sena which has opposed India’s cricketing ties with Pakistan. (Agencies)
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