Umar Farooq
April 4, 2012
Four companies have shown interest in the PCB's initiative to launch an international Twenty20 league in Pakistan. A proposal to launch Pakistan Premier League (PPL) will be presented by the companies to the board next week.
"We have invited the companies to present us the plans," PCB chief operating officer, Subhan Ahmed told ESPNcricinfo. "We are thrilled to see the initial response but we have to sit and look into the modalities and feasibility of having such an event in Pakistan involving foreign players."
Ahmed said that international player participation was necessary for the success of such a competition. However, Pakistan has been unable to host international cricket since March 2009, when Sri Lanka's team bus was attacked by terrorists.
"I can't say that we are sure whether to play in Pakistan or abroad. But PCB has serious intention to hold the PPL. The situation definitely has improved and that is why the British [Universities] team is here in Pakistan."
Former PCB president, Nasim Ashraf, floated the original idea in 2007. While, the idea was scrapped later scrapped in Pakistan, similar leagues have cropped up in Bangladesh, Australia and South Africa after the success of the IPL.
"PPL was held back for several reason in the past, but this time we are very keen and serious on launching our league as an attempt to bring the international cricket back in the country."
