KARACHI, March 12: India's cricketers arrived here on Friday for the opening game of an eagerly anticipated series that both countries hope will cement a fledgling peace process in region.

The first full tour by India of its neighbours in more than 14 years starts at the National Stadium on Saturday with the first of five one-day internationals, followed by three tests.

While the players have sought to limit the series to matters on the pitch, the tour clearly means more for over one billion people living in a region racked by tension during the past 14 years.

"The relationship (between India and Pakistan) is more important than cricket," Pakistani coach Javed Miandad said.-Reuters