CALCUTTA, 22 December 2003 — Pakistan look determined to cap their first visit to India in four years with a victory in an Asian junior triangular one-day cricket tournament starting here today amid tight security.
“We have come here to win,” said Pakistan A captain Shahid Afridi ahead of the limited-overs series which also involves a second-string Sri Lankan team.
India will meet Sri Lanka in the opening match of the tournament featuring a mix of international players and the best of young talent from the three countries. They clash with Pakistan on Thursday.
“We are extremely happy to be here and playing against India is always very special. An India-Pakistan match always brings the best out of both the teams,” said Afridi.
Pakistani cricketers last toured India in 1999 when the national side under Wasim Akram played three Tests.
India skipper Hemang Badani hoped Pakistan’s presence would spur his team to put in an impressive performance.
“We’re playing Pakistan at home after a long time and we want to do well,” said Badani, who was also axed from India’s national side like his Pakistani counterpart. “I think the prospect of playing Pakistan will spur our young side. We have great respect for them and we know we have a good contest on our hands,” he said. Sri Lankan captain Russel Arnold said his team’s goal was to gain more international experience. “Of course, we want to win the tournament, but the bigger aim is to gain some experience,” he said.
Indian cricket board president Jagmohan Dalmiya said security would be tight for the tournament, to be held at the Eden Gardens. “Like every international event, this tournament will also be given its due importance. Enough policemen and security forces will be there to ensure there are no disturbances during matches,” he said.
