KARACHI: Commissioner Karachi Shoaib Ahmed Siddiqui has said that foolproof security will be given to the Zimbabwe cricket team during matches scheduled for next month in the metropolis.

Revival of international cricket after six years in Pakistan is a cheerful occasion for everyone, said the commissioner while responding to a letter of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) requesting for the arrangements and security of the Zimbabwe cricket team for the matches scheduled to be played at the National Stadium Karachi during their visit to Pakistan in May.

“Pakistan’s soft image should be highlighted before the world,” the commissioner remarked while stating that all required arrangements including security would be ensured with the help of police, law enforcement agencies and the city administration during the ODI and T-20 matches scheduled in the Sindh capital.

Zimbabwe tour of Pakistan and their scheduled matches at the National Stadium Karachi simply corresponds with our motto of ‘Sports for peace’ which has also been our message in Karachi which, he said in his return letter, was ready to host Zimbabwe matches with pride.

It is our collective responsibility to not only highlight Pakistan’s positive aspects with reference to sports but to also give a message to the world that Pakistan is a safe country for sports, the commissioner said, adding that it will encourage other international teams to play in Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, April 20th, 2015

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