Pakistan News and opinion: PCB accepts BCB’s request for a full tour in December >
The relations between the two boards were sour since 2009, when Bangladesh cancelled a scheduled tour by Pakistan team immediately after the Lahore terrorist attacks on Sri Lankan Team bus in March 2009. PCB cold-shouldered Bangladesh from then on, as it deemed the action by BCB as uncalled for and unsporting being a brotherly board and country. It was thought that at a critical time when Pakistan needed support, Bangladesh turned away.
The relations turned even bitter when Bangladesh opposed Pakistan, to the surprise of PCB, and supported ICC resolution to shift the World Cup matches out of Pakistan. Two months ago, Bangladesh postponed an under-19 tour to Pakistan, but now it seems the ice is melting.
Pakistan is already suffering from lack of cricket as no team is likely to tour the country on security grounds in near future. Bangladesh too has been exposed to limited chances, especially in the Test arena, resulting in the deterioration of the performance of their team. Both nations require each other’s support, and it is evident that both sides have understood this fact at last.
Bangladesh has been denied an Indian full tour for many years in future, resulting in a feeling of resentment and emptiness. They already have a dearth of tours against a quality opposition, and denying Pakistan was only worsening the matter.
It is hoped that the tour is formally approved paving the way for a return Bangladesh tour, which Pakistan desperately needs.
Published in sportpulse.net on 12 Sep 2011
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