The trophy for the Independence Cup, to be played between Pakistan and World XI, was unveiled in a ceremony on Monday.
Speaking to reporters, Pakistan team captain Sarfraz Ahmed said the team’s responsibility has been increased since victory in the Champions Trophy, adding that the team was well-prepared to perform in the upcoming matches.
“Hashim Amla is my favourite player,” Sarfraz said in a reply to a question.
The World XI, which will play three T20Is from Tuesday, arrived around 2:00 AM local time with air surveillance and dozens of police vans in attendance as the team was whisked to their hotel.
Earlier, the World XI was received by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Najam Sethi at the Lahore airport, before being transported to its hotel at The Mall.
World XI captain Faf du Plessis said this tour represents something bigger than cricket, terming it a rare opportunity for the World XI players.
Andy Flower had said he was happy and proud to be coach of the World XI team, adding that Pakistan has suffered a lot due to the absence of international cricket for long. “We too will celebrate the return of the international cricket along with Pakistani team,” he said. “Pakistan helped Zimbabwean cricket a lot in the 1990s,” he said.
The coach expressed hope the world will get to see some great cricket action this week.
