KARACHI, Sept 20: Pakistan has been told to expect a heavy rush of English cricket fans for this winter’s series on the sub-continent following England’s victory over Australia in the Ashes series. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have advised their Pakistani counterparts to be prepared for a big influx of supporters for the three Tests and five One-day Internationals.

English selectors have already announced a full-strength side for the tour starting on Oct 26, raising expectations of a high-profile series.

“We were expecting some English supporters but we have now been told their number could be higher than earlier anticipated. We should know the exact number soon,” said Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shaharyar Khan.

The ECB’s refusal to play a Test in Karachi, and the decision to avoid any matches in Peshawar, were also due to concerns for the safety of England’s “Barmy Army” supporters.

The PCB chief said Pakistan was prepared to host any number of English supporters but had no plans to put them in separate enclosures.

“We don’t want any segregation of their fans. But if we get a request to have separate seating arrangements for them we have no problem with that,” he stated.

He said English fans would be well looked after at the match venues and tickets would soon be available on the Internet. England last toured Pakistan in the winter of 2000.

The PCB chairman was optimistic that, because of England’s Ashes win, the coming series would generate a lot of interest.

Captain Michael Vaughan has said a continuation of good performances on winter tours to Pakistan and India would establish his team as the best in the world.

“Definitely England have dethroned the World champions and sponsors are now realising the marketing opportunities available in the series,” Shaharyar said.

“The fans are also now expecting a well-contested series and we are happy that all their leading players are coming.”—Reuters