Faisalabad is buzzing with excitement as international cricket makes a triumphant return to the Iqbal Stadium after a long 17-year wait! The city is set to host a thrilling three-match One-Day International (ODI) series between Pakistan and South Africa, starting this Tuesday. This marks a significant moment for cricket fans in Faisalabad, who last witnessed an international match back in 2008 when Pakistan played against Bangladesh.
After enduring a challenging six-year period where Pakistan was forced to play their international matches in neutral venues due to security concerns following the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team bus, the return of international cricket to Pakistan has been gradual. While cricket returned to Pakistan from 2015 onwards, Faisalabad was unfortunately left out due to inadequate facilities. However, significant improvements have been made over the past three years, paving the way for this momentous occasion.
Shaheen Afridi Hails the Return
Pakistan's newly appointed ODI captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, expressed his delight at the decision to host matches in Faisalabad. "It's a special occasion that Faisalabad is hosting an international match after 17 years," Shaheen said. "It will be good for the fans of the city."
Teams Gear Up for the Challenge
These ODIs will conclude South Africa's tour, which saw them draw a two-match test series 1-1 and lose the Twenty20 internationals 2-1. Shaheen admitted that captaincy is a huge responsibility. "It is an honour for me to lead the country," he stated. Pakistan will be fielding a strong team, with Shaheen, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah leading the attack, and Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Rizwan bolstering the batting lineup.
South Africa, however, will be without their regular captain Temba Bavuma, who is injured, as well as seven other key players, including the pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, who are being rested. The captaincy has been entrusted to Matthew Breetzke, who impressed with a record-breaking 150 on his ODI debut against New Zealand in Lahore.
Cricket enthusiasts across South Africa and Pakistan are eagerly anticipating this exciting series. Get ready for some thrilling cricket action!