— Andy Flower says the independence cup was a step in the right direction
World XI squad’s coach Andy Flower hailed the side’s trip to Lahore and termed the tour as ‘memorable’ and one that the ‘cricketers will cherish for the rest of their lives.’
Speaking to media after the third Twenty20 International (T20I) between Pakistan and World XI, Flower — who formerly coached England and captained Zimbabwe — commented on how the series, despite being a baby step, was the one in the right direction.
“One thing I think we all should remember is that these are baby steps and I am sure that the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) will take one safe and steady step at a time,” the star sportsman said in his opening statement during the post-series press conference.
“I think this is a step in the right direction, a step forward. It has been very successful and very well-received here in Pakistan,” Flower added. The World XI coach praised the security arrangements in Lahore, saying that the security plan made the players feel secure over the course of their trip to the country.
“Now that the first step has been taken, there will be more steps on way,” he said. Flower, 49, also praised the energetic and passion-fuelled crowd of Lahore, which, according to him, made all the players feel at ease.
“The way Pakistani people and the crowd — particularly at this ground — cheered for us at the end of the second game, which we won beating the home team, made us feel right at home,” Flower explained.
“This tour is another reminder of the fact that cricket transcends boundaries,” he added. Flower promised that he will tell stories from the tour to the international community and share his experiences of being a guest to such a welcoming crowd of hosts.
“I will tell stories of my week in Lahore after I leave Pakistan, but it is up to the international community to take it all forward,” he concluded.