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In a significant move, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially granted VVIP status to the England cricket team as they prepare for their upcoming Test series in Pakistan. This prestigious status, typically reserved for heads of state, ensures that the visiting team will receive the highest level of security and exclusive facilities during their stay. The decision underscores Pakistan's commitment to providing top-tier hospitality and security to visiting international teams, particularly in light of the heightened focus on player safety in recent years.
VVIP Status for England's Test Series in Pakistan
The VVIP status has been approved for the two highly anticipated Test matches, which are scheduled to take place in Multan and Rawalpindi. The move comes as Pakistan aims to foster strong ties with the international cricket community and further solidify its reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for international sports events.
This status will ensure that the England cricket team enjoys the same level of security and amenities that would be afforded to visiting heads of state. Such measures include fool-proof security, with heavily coordinated efforts from law enforcement agencies and specialized security units to protect the players. The goal is to make sure that the England team can focus entirely on their performance without any concerns for their safety or well-being.
VIP Status for Commentators and Production Crew
While the England players and officials have been accorded VVIP status, the visiting commentators, journalists, and production crews covering the series will also receive VIP status. Though this classification does not come with the same rigorous level of security as the VVIP status, it still provides them with ample protection and facilities, ensuring a smooth experience while they work in Pakistan.
This differentiation between VVIP and VIP status is an effort to extend hospitality and professionalism to everyone involved in the event, allowing for efficient organization and security without overstretching resources.
VVIP Status for the Pakistan Cricket Team
In addition to the England team, the Pakistan cricket team has also been granted VVIP status for the duration of the Test series. The gesture reaffirms Pakistan's commitment to treating both the home and visiting teams with equal respect and importance. Given the historical significance of cricket in the region, this level of attention is seen as a necessary measure to uphold Pakistan’s growing reputation as a cricketing hub.
With the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) working in close collaboration with local law enforcement and international security agencies, the aim is to provide the players with a safe environment to showcase their talents and entertain cricket fans across the globe.
Importance of Security for International Cricket in Pakistan
Security has long been a sensitive issue for international teams visiting Pakistan. After the unfortunate events of 2009, when the Sri Lankan cricket team was attacked by gunmen in Lahore, international cricket was suspended in Pakistan for several years. Since then, the PCB, alongside the government, has worked tirelessly to restore the nation’s image as a safe venue for international cricket. The return of Test cricket, particularly high-profile matches like those against England, marks a significant milestone in this journey.
In recent years, Pakistan has hosted a number of successful international tours, with teams from countries such as South Africa, Australia, and the West Indies visiting for various formats. The current decision to provide VVIP status to the England team is a continuation of these efforts to ensure that international cricket thrives once again in the country.
Pakistan’s Squad for the First Test Against England
In anticipation of the series, the Pakistan cricket selectors recently announced a 15-player squad for the first Test against England, scheduled to take place in Multan from 7th to 11th October. The team selection has been carefully considered, with input from the head coach, Jason Gillespie, who recommended that several key players be withdrawn from the Champions One-Day Cup playoffs to ensure they have ample rest before the series begins.
The squad for the first Test includes a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, promising an exciting contest between two highly competitive teams. The full squad is as follows:
- Shan Masood (Captain)
- Saud Shakeel (Vice-Captain)
- Aamir Jamal
- Abdullah Shafique
- Abrar Ahmed
- Babar Azam
- Mir Hamza
- Mohammad Huraira
- Mohammad Rizwan (Wicket-Keeper)
- Naseem Shah
- Noman Ali
- Saim Ayub
- Salman Ali Agha
- Sarfaraz Ahmed (Wicket-Keeper)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi
The squad reflects a balance between young and experienced players, with stars like Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan providing leadership and skill. Emerging players like Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed will look to make their mark on the international stage, while veterans like Sarfaraz Ahmed return to lend their experience to the team.
Preparing for a Historic Series
With the VVIP status secured and both teams gearing up for the series, excitement is building among cricket fans in Pakistan and across the world. The Multan and Rawalpindi venues will host the two matches, providing cricket enthusiasts the chance to witness high-quality Test cricket. For Pakistan, this series is an opportunity to further assert its credentials as a world-class cricket destination, while for England, it offers the chance to compete in one of the most cricket-passionate nations in the world.