By IANS
Perth : Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has insisted that his country is a safe place to play cricket and pleaded with Australia to hold its nerve and push ahead with their tour in March.
Despite another bomb attack killing at least 10 people this week, Akram insists the country will be safe for Australia’s cricketers after elections on Feb 18.
“I think everything will be fine after the elections. Things will settle down,” Akram said.
“Australia should play in Pakistan. They will be safe there, and there will be so much security around them.
“It is not sporting figures who are being targeted.”
Australia is due to play three Tests, five one-day internationals and a Twenty20 match in Pakistan, but the tour is now in doubt because of widespread violence.
Pakistan was plunged into chaos after last month’s assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, but Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials have so far refused to consider shifting the series to a neutral venue.
Australia’s security delegation must complete a pre-tour inspection of Pakistan, but they may have little time to do so now the national elections have been rescheduled to late February.
Australian officials are also monitoring Zimbabwe’s tour of Pakistan, which it has so far continued, with the first Test set to start in Karachi on Jan 21.
However, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has posted a travel advice on its website warning of the danger of terrorist attacks against Australians in Pakistan.
“We continue to receive a stream of credible reports indicating terrorists are in the advanced stages of planning attacks,” DFAT warns.
“These attacks could target Western or Australian interests and individuals and places frequented by foreigners. These attacks could occur at any time. Attacks may be launched anywhere in Pakistan, including major cities.
“We strongly advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Pakistan at this time due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, sectarian violence and the unpredictable security situation.”
Pakistan will come under pressure to agree to play the tour in a neutral venue, such as when Australia’s 2002 tour was shifted to Sharjah and Colombo.