LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - The International Cricket Council (ICC) has agreed to back Pakistan's efforts to resume international cricket in their own country and said it would provide financial assistance for security needs. Pakistan is currently hosting a World XI cricket team for three T20 games in the eastern city of Lahore, a series that is being touted as a watershed moment for those bidding to restore international cricket in the country. ICC Chief Executive David Richardson called the matches an "important stepping stone" for Pakistan to earn the "confidence of the international sporting community". Pakistan has hosted only one international series since militants attacked a bus carrying the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore in 2009, wounding six players and killing two civilians and six security officials. Fans have been clamouring for the return of international cricket since March after the final of the domestic T20 Pakistan Super League, featuring high-profile foreign players such as World Cup winner Darren Sammy, was held in Lahore.

Source: The Star September 13, 2017 17:26 UTC