LAHORE: Zimbabwe cricket team manager Christian Chiketa on Tuesday expressed gratitude to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the government of Pakistan for ensuring foolproof security arrangements for their tour.
Addressing a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, Chiketa said,”Cricket unites us as brothers. We hope to put up a good show against Pakistan.”
“Their team is stronger than us but my boys are confident that they will give their best,” he added.
Zimbabwe captain, Elton Chigumbura, was also present at the press conference. When asked about his views on the tour, he said: “This series will be something worth remembering. This is a great opportunity for us. Cricket is our job and we are happy to face a great time like Pakistan.
When asked about a short cancellation period before the tour, Chiketa said: “There were some unfortunate events happening in Karachi which unnerved us. Doubts came into the minds of our fraternity but in the end we decided to visit Pakistan.
“What we want to achieve is to be able to play cricket against our brothers. And regarding the rumours of indemnity, all players are here voluntarily.”
Chigumbura, while replying to a question on Zimbabwe team’s strength, said: “Everything is our strength.”
He further added: “It will be a good series. They have got new players but we also have a good mixture. Will give the spectators a good show. We will utilise these two days to adjust to the conditions and give our best.”
Chiketa, meanwhile thanked PCB for all the effort they have put in to make the series possible.
“We had a meeting in the morning and we talked about the tremendous effort PCB and the Pakistan government has put in. We are grateful to them for keeping us secure.
“We have also experienced international isolation. Team would say we won’t visit Zimbabwe due to security concerns. But we won’t let that happen with our brother. You can’t kill the spirit of cricket.
“Cricket is like a religion in Pakistan. We are happy that we are contributing to help the youngsters see their heroes perform for them at home.”
Chigumbura concluded the press conference with comments about their chances to win.
“The team that plays good on the day wins. That is the rule of cricket and that is our process too. We just have to go out there and play our best cricket.”
