Pakistan Super League, similar to the Big Bash League in Australia, is currently halfway through with all its matches are being played in the United Arab Emirates.
The last few matches including the finals will be played in Pakistan and international players are being invited to play the league matches at their home ground.
Australian cricketer Shane Watson has confirmed his participation in the league on social media.
In a post on social media, he said that the last time he visited Pakistan was 14 years ago and now he is looking forward to play and win the trophy for Quetta Gladiators team.
International Cricket in Pakistan
The country has been ‘off the grid’ from the international cricket matches and tournaments due to the security situation compounded by the terrorist attack on Sri Lankan team in March 2009.
The attacks, which killed eight people and injured seven visiting players, forced Pakistan to play all its home matches in neutral venues within the United Arab Emirates.
However, recently few international matches were organised successfully including the tour of both West Indian Men’s and Women’s cricket teams in Pakistan.
Fans overjoyed
Local fans are ecstatic by the news of Aussie cricketer visiting Pakistan.
“Thank you, sir, for coming to Pakistan” commented one on Shane Watson’s tweet.
“Most welcome Watto. Bundles of love and respect to you, and thanks so much” said another.
But few cricket followers raised concerns on the security situation in the country.
“Do you have bulletproof jacket or something..?? Also there is an air space ban.. How xould u go.. Take care bro.” asked one of his Twitter followers.
In a video message via Quetta Gladiators twitter account, Shane Watson has shared his feelings with his fans.
"It’s been a tough decision from family’s point of view, me being away talking to my wife and my son, he has been struggling this time as me being away. I talked to them and it worked out nicely.”
Pakistan men's cricket team and Quetta Gladiators' captain Sarfraz Ahmed has thanked Shane Watson on his decision.
"Thank you so much for coming to Pakistan; we all are very happy. See you soon in Karachi."
Cricket Australia says ‘no’ to upcoming tour to Pakistan
Despite several calls from Pakistan to convince Australia to play in the South Asian nation, Cricket Australia has refused to play the cricket matches there.
The home tour of Pakistan will be played later this month in the United Arab Emirates.
Sharjah will host the first two ODIs on March 22 and 24 while the fourth and fifth ODI will be played at Dubai on March 29 and 31, respectively. Abu Dhabi will host the third ODI on March 27.
"The PCB was optimistic that it will be able to convince Cricket Australia to send its side (to Pakistan) for some matches," PCB's director of international cricket Zakir Khan said in a statement last month.
"But we are disappointed for the enthusiastic and passionate cricket fans in Pakistan who will now have to wait for some more time before they can see the Australian cricket team live in action for the first time since 1998."
