February 19, 2008	Tuesday	Safar 11, 1429

DUBAI, Feb 18: Pakistan vice-captain Misbah-ul-Haq has hoped the general elections and the subsequent related procedures in his country will pass peacefully, which in turn would ensure Australia’s tour of his country in March to go ahead as planned.

“It is very important for Australia to come and play in Pakistan. They are the world’s number one team,” Misbah, who is here on the invitation of a private Pakistan TV channel, insisted.

“When the best team plays in a country it not only makes thousands of youth take interest but also gives a chance to the current Pakistan players to gauge their standard. A good showing or a win will be a big boost for the game in Pakistan,” the elegant right-handed batsman added.

Meanwhile, according to a report the Australian tour of Pakistan is “almost certainly off despite the host board’s assurances of safety.”

Cricket Australia (CA) seems certain to decline the tour regardless of the outcome of Monday’s elections in Pakistan, said the Australian newpaper Herald.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has tried its best to convince Australia that their players will be safe, while CA’s advice tells them it would be unsafe to visit Pakistan.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) may have to step in and make a call on behalf of both the countries, which could increase likelihood of the series being played at a neutral venue, despite Pakistan’s objections.

—Agencies