KARACHI – West Indian batting legend Sir Vivian Richards, who is in Karachiahead of the final of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2018, hopes to send out amessage to the world that the country is safe to host international cricket.
Speaking to media during a tour of Moin Khan Cricket Academy earlier today,Sir Richards expressed his gratitude to the people of Pakistan forshowering him with love and respect, and emphasised that the cricket-lovingcountry is safe.
“I’m happy to be here [in Pakistan]. I’m hoping that the PSL final inKarachi may inspire [some of those] who felt that Pakistan wasn’t safeenough for them to come…that everything is okay [here].
I’m hoping I can send a message to the world that Karachi, and Pakistan onthe whole, is a very safe and good place,” said the cricket legend.Sir Richards, who has been a mentor of Quetta Gladiators since theinauguration of PSL, said he feels overwhelmed by the love Pakistanis havegiven him.
“I’m very honoured and privileged to be in such an environment where youfeel lots of love. It cannot get any better than this.”
Asked which team he is rooting for in the final, he put it clearly enough.“Anyone who beats Quetta Gladiators deserves to win the tournament!”
Heaping praise on the PSL, Sir Richards hailed it as a “breeding ground”for the young talent of Pakistan, and expressed hope that there will bemany more PSL matches in Pakistan in the future.—Agencies