February 28, 2008	Thursday	Safar 20 ,1429

LAHORE, Feb 27: Describing Pakistan as a peaceful and hospitable nation, coach Geoff Lawson has urged the Australian cricketers to tour the country next month without any security concerns.

“Look, I have been living in Pakistan now for the last few months and there are one or two places where security is an issue. But apart from that Pakistan remains a safe place to play cricket,” Lawson told newsmen here.

“Pakistani people are very hospitable, love their cricket and are looking forward to this series against Australians,” he stated. “If they [Australian cricketers] don’t come it will be a big disappointment, not only for the fans but also for the sport in general in the country.

“It is peaceful in most parts of the country and I think we must have this series. Australia must tour with the Pakistan Cricket Board [PCB] also keen to have this contest, giving them [the Australians] all assurances,” he noted.

On mercurial pacer Shoaib Akhtar, Lawson said contrary to what critics might say he still remains a force to reckon with.

“He can bother the best batsmen and it’s good to have him in the team. He contributes a lot with his bowling,” the coach opined.

“But even if Shoaib is not available I’m confident we have the pace back-up to come through. The good news is that Umar Gul and Mohammad Asif have also recovered well from their injuries,” he added.

—Agencies