Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has issued a strong warning to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the government to ensure the highest levels of security during upcoming cricket tours. With Pakistan set to host the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after an 18-year gap, Ali emphasized that any security lapse could lead to the country losing its hosting rights for the prestigious tournament.
Ali’s comments come ahead of the critical Bangladesh and England tours, which will be seen as a litmus test for Pakistan’s security measures. In the backdrop of the 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore, Ali stressed that the country cannot afford even the smallest security breach. “The foreign teams should get the same security as our Prime Minister and President,” Ali said on his YouTube channel.
The Stakes Are High
The upcoming tours by Bangladesh and England will not only test Pakistan’s cricketing infrastructure but also its ability to provide top-tier security. The PCB and the government are under immense pressure to deliver, especially given India’s reluctance to send their team across the border due to longstanding security concerns. The success of these tours could determine whether other international teams feel safe enough to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
Ali highlighted the dangers of complacency by recalling the devastating consequences of the 2009 attack, which led to Pakistan losing its co-hosting rights for the 2011 Cricket World Cup. “We must ensure that there is not even a small security breach,” Ali reiterated, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Pakistan’s Cricketing Future at Risk
The Champions Trophy is a significant opportunity for Pakistan to re-establish itself as a safe and reliable host for international cricket. However, the country’s security situation remains volatile, with incidents in regions like Balochistan and Peshawar raising concerns. Ali pointed out the recent martyrdom of soldiers in these areas, questioning the government’s ability to control the situation and protect visiting teams.
With India and Pakistan not having played a bilateral series since 2013, and the recent Asia Cup 2023 being held in a hybrid model due to India’s refusal to travel, the stakes are higher than ever for Pakistan to get its security right. Failure to do so could have long-term repercussions for the country’s ability to host international sporting events.
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