LAHORE, Nov 10: Despite the last-minute cancellation of Indian junior hockey team’s tour to Pakistan on Monday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has expressed its confidence and hope that the Indian cricket squad will visit Pakistan as per schedule in January-February next year.

Saleem Altaf, PCB’s Chief Operating Officer, while answering questions at a media conference here on Monday, said he was unaware of the details or reasons as to why the Indian hockey authorities had cancelled the Pakistan tour, but added he was hopeful that cricket would not meet the same fate.

India are scheduled to visit Pakistan early next year to play three Tests, five One-day Internationals and a Twenty20 International.

The Indian junior hockey team was to cross Wagah Border on Monday but their government did not give them clearance on security grounds.

It is a well-known fact that the PCB considers the forthcoming series against India as a significant occasion to generate income that has declined considerably due to the cancellation of big events at home earlier this year like Australia series and the ICC Champions Trophy.

Asked whether the PCB had alternative plans if the BCCI followed their national hockey authorities, Saleem said the board’s first priority is to host India at home, however added that the PCB could consider all options, including an alternative venue for the high-profile series.

Meanwhile, Saleem said Wasim Bari, former Test captain and ex-chief selector, has been appointed as PCB’s Director Human Resources and Administration, adding he would assume charge from Nov 18.

Similarly, Aamir Sohail, another former Test captain and chief selector, has been named Director of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in place of Mudassar Nazar. Asif Sohail, a sports journalist, will head the PCB media department, replacing Mansoor Suhail.