MCC set to take on Lahore Qalandars today: Security concern everywhere, not just in Pakistan: Sangakkara

Terming 'security' as a major concern everywhere in the world, former Sri Lankan skipper and Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) President Kumar Sangakkara on Thursday emphasized the need for holding international cricket matches on home grounds, as this ultimately contributes towards the "global game."

Addressing a news conference alongside Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Executive Wasim Khan here, the MCC president said that steps that have been taken in Pakistan over the last few years have instilled great confidence in cricketing nations. "The more times that international teams' tour, the stronger that message becomes," he said, adding: "The MCC is here because one of our core philosophies is that the spirit of cricket transcends most barriers that sometimes keep nations and people apart."

Led by Sangakkara, the MCC's 12-member squad is currently visiting Lahore to play both 20 and 50-over match fixtures against four teams i.e., Lahore Qalandars, Pakistan Shaheens, Northern and Multan Sultans. All the matches will be played in Lahore.

Sangakkara said, "For me personally, I have immensely wonderful memories of playing in Pakistan, especially Lahore, I was taken to see the name boards that underscore the hundreds that both domestic and international players have scored here and it underlines the importance of cricket being played at home and in your home country."

As a Sri Lankan and as president of the MCC, I am so happy we are able to do our part to try and encourage countries to look at Pakistan as one of the best cricketing destinations, he said, adding: "Cricket goes a long way in engaging people from different countries. In 1996, when Sri Lanka was in need of assistance, the unified front the cricketing nation showed to play in the country. For us on this tour, it is about spreading that message, and the gospel of the MCC and supporting Pakistan on its great journey back," he said, adding: "The MCC is very competitive, we are here to play some good cricket and to win some games. It's great that we have some tough opposition to play against."