Friday, December 05, 2008

MALAYSIA TO HOST INDO-PAK TEST?



Though not one official from the Malaysian Cricket Association would want to talk about it, news has it that Malaysia may well join the bid to host the matches between the two countries, scheduled for early January next year.

It is believed that a discussion on the matter took place in the MCA but there has not been any confirmation of sorts.

Malaysia has the facilities to play hosts as it boasts of two world class cricket facilities in Kinrara and Bayumas and MCA should seriously make an effort to sway the matches to Malaysian shores.

With the recent incident at Mumbai, it is highly unlikely that the Indian team will set foot on Pakistan soil and there have already been offers from England and UAE to host the matches which no doubt will be lucrative in terms of TV rights and other commercial aspects.

Doubts have emerged over India's tour to play three Tests, five one-dayers and a Twenty20 game after the Indian government stopped a junior hockey team from touring Pakistan at the last moment last month over security concerns. The Indian cricket board is awaiting government clearance to decide if it will carry on with the playing tour.