DUBAI: Former captain Imran Khan —who bowled the first ever ball in a day-night game under lights —was full of praise for the new stadium where Pakistan played Australia in the opening match on Wednesday.
‘I bowled the first ball at night in cricket way back in 1970s so I know the difference. This new stadium has innovative lights, a beautiful stadium which will add to the attractions of the game,’ Khan said.
The Dubai stadium, part of Dubai Sports City which has various other facilities, on Wednesday became the 172nd venue in the world to stage a one-day international.
‘It is the first time I have seen a stadium where cricket has been played, that is anything like this,’ said 57-year-old Khan who now heads a political party —Tehrik-e-Insaaf in Pakistan.
Khan played 88 Tests and 175 one-day internationals for Pakistan and also led the country to its only World Cup title in Australia in 1992.
He said the conditions in Dubai would suit Pakistan. ‘Ideally, people wanted this series to be played in Pakistan, but due to unfortunate circumstances it is moved here which have the same conditions as in Pakistan, so our players must feel at home,’ said Khan who is here as a guest.
Former West Indian captain Clive Lloyd also praised the venue. ‘I opened the stadium years ago and when I came here last year, it was nearly finished. It is magnificent and is an addition to the venues of cricket,’ said Lloyd, who led the West Indies to first two World Cup wins in 1975 and 1979.
Former South African captain Ali Bacher also sang praise for the stadium. ‘It looks like the Wanderers, which is called Bull Ring. The arrival of this stadium couldn't have come at a better time for Pakistan cricket,’ said Bacher as Pakistan are forced to play at neutral venues because of security problems back home.
Australia's refusal to tour Pakistan over security fears relocated the series to Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
No comments:
Post a Comment