Amla excited about experiencing ‘Pakistan’s culture’

— ‘We are very eager to perform in front of Pakistani crowd’

The cricket fans in Pakistan are eagerly awaiting the World XI’s arrival in Lahore next month, but, there are not alone as members of the star-studded squad are just as excited to play in front of a packed crowd at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

South African star Hashim Amla has said that he is as excited about experiencing Pakistan’s cricketing culture during the upcoming three-match World XI T20 series against Pakistan in Lahore next month.

The ‘run machine’ Hashim Amla said that he could not wait to come to Pakistan for the series, which will see high-profile international cricket grace Pakistan’s pitches once again, after a hiatus of eight years.

While speaking to a private news channel, Amla talked about his hopes for the series on Saturday, Amla said, “We are happy to help in reviving international cricket in Pakistan, some of us are very excited about performing in front of the Pakistani crowd.”

“Currently, Pakistan is certainly one of the best T20 teams in the world. They just won the Champions Trophy, so they are certainly very competent,” Amla said. Talking about the home ground and home crowd advantage that Pakistan has, that too after a long gap, Amla said, “We are excited about enjoying the cricketing culture of Pakistan.”

“I hope everything smoothly. All the five players from South Africa are looking forward to it. Last time I went to Pakistan was 10 years ago, I had a great time, the games were well attended and the people there have a great passion for the game, that’s something I am looking forward to,” he added.

Amla also talked about the security concerns in Pakistan and said, “It is not a secret that, during last 10 years, security was the main concern in Pakistan. So, once you get the go-ahead from the ICC, that all the checks and balances are in place, then I don’t see any reason not to support this cause,” he said.

However, he did add that their schedule would be quite tough, with three matches being held over a span of three or four days. “We are excited that the World XI league is taking off and I think once we get started everyone will be very impressed,” Amla said.