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Bipin Dani

MUMBAI - Grant Flower, who is set to be the new batting coach of the Pakistan team next month had sought advice from several people before accepting the role with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Speaking exclusively over telephone from Zimbabwe, he says, "I have spoken to various people about it (safety and security in Pakistan) and feel that the risk, if there is one, is worth taking". Obviously the recent attack on Karachi airport was a concern for the Zimbabwean. The South African players have cancelled their plans to come and play in Pakistan during forthcoming Ramazan tournament.

"My parents and family do have their concerns but hopefully, everything will work out. Geoff Lawson told me that Lahore is a lovely city and he had a great time there. Definitely I am going to Pakistan. Hopefully international cricket will return as soon as possible and then the population can once again enjoy watching their national heroes. Time will tell", he added.

However, Pakistan's hopes of reviving international cricket at home were shattered recently following Ireland decision to hold back the talks for the proposed tour to Pakistan later this year.

"I am very humbled by being taken on as batting coach for Pakistan. They have such good players and some very exciting youngsters coming thru, so I thought it would be a great challenge. I have really enjoyed my time with Zimbabwe cricket but feel that the time is right to move on and luckily, I got the opportunity to work with one of the best cricketing nations in the world".

"I will try to learn some Urdu, as I am sure it will help with my communications with players. I am not Heath Streak though, who is very good with different languages", he signed off. "Salaam Walekum", Heath Streak had greeted the media persons on his arrival in Bangladesh as bowling coach.