KARACHI, Feb 1: All-rounder Shahid Afridi has made an emotional appeal to the cricketing world to end Pakistan's four-year isolation over terror attacks.
No international cricket has been played in Pakistan since gunmen attacked the Sri Lankan team bus in 2009.
Minnows Bangladesh twice called off tours last year over security fears and the head of the Federation of International Cricketers' Associations has warned players not to take part in an inaugural T20 tournament in March.
Afridi said Pakistan has been sidelined and had “suffered because of being the frontline state in the war” against militants.
“We are desperately trying to revive international cricket in our country and need co-operation but it's not coming,” he told AFP.
For four years, Pakistan has been forced to play its home series at neutral venues in England and the United Arab Emirates.
“Pakistan cricket is suffering because of non-cooperation and it is high time that other nations contribute to our efforts. Don't leave us alone,” said Afridi.
He said cricketing nations and FICA should help the PCB bring foreign players for the PSL.
“If two players from each country come we can stage a good league and I request Cricket Australia to send their players,” said Afridi.
“FICA must also co-operate. Pakistan needs support and if a player is willing to come and we are assuring him security, then they must not stop him.”—AFP