LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee chairman Zaka Ashraf left for India to witness Pakistan’s high-octane ICC World Cup 2023 fixture against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on 14 October.
According to the details, the PCB chair took off from Allama Iqbal International Airport here on Thursday evening and will reach Ahmedabad via Dubai.
During his stay in India, Zaka Ashraf will meet the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the government officials to propose the restoration of cricketing ties between the two countries.
Watch ICC World Cup 2023 Live on ARY ZAP
For the unversed, Zaka Ashraf made the decision to travel to India after it was confirmed that the media personnel were given the go-ahead to submit their passports for an Indian visa to cover the ICC World Cup 2023.
“I have delayed my travel to India, and I am travelling tomorrow after receiving confirmation that Pakistan’s journalists have been asked to submit their passports to obtain visas to cover the mega event.
“I am happy that my conversation with the foreign office helped in achieving a positive development regarding the visa delay.
“I am extremely pleased with the way the players have performed so far in the World Cup, winning both matches. The PCB management committee and the entire nation stand firmly behind the players for a successful campaign in the ongoing World Cup.
“I am travelling to India to motivate the team, and my message to them before the India contest will be to play fearlessly as they have been playing throughout the event.”
Acknowledging Zaka Ashraf’s decision to travel to India, BCCI Honorary Secretary, Jay Shah, extended a warm welcome to the PCB head.
The two counterparts had a telephonic conversation, where Shah expressed his delight to have Zaka Ashraf in India. Shah further extended his hospitality by offering to facilitate him by arranging his meetings with other high-ranking officials during his stay in India.
READ: Ton-up de Kock powers South Africa to 311 against Australia