KARACHI, Feb 23: Former England paceman Dominic Cork and Sri Lankan coach Trevor Bayliss on Monday urged foreign teams to play in Pakistan, where three major events were cancelled over security fears last year.

Australia refused to go on a scheduled Test and limited over match tour in March last year. They agreed to reschedule the tour and visit for One-day Internationals in 2009 and Tests in 2010.

But earlier this month they forced Pakistan to play the one-day series at the neutral venues of Dubai and Abu Dhabi in April-May this year after the Australian government refused permission to tour.

Australia, who also played Pakistan in three Tests at neutral venues of Colombo and Dubai in 2002 over security fears, have not toured here since 1998.

India also refused to send its team across the border amid heightened tensions in the wake of attacks on Mumbai.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) was forced to move out the Champions Trophy after three top teams pulled out, saying touring Pakistan was a high risk for their players.

Cork, 37, said teams must play in Pakistan.

“My simple message to teams is ‘play cricket in Pakistan’,” said Cork, who is here as a TV commentator.

Pakistan incurred a loss of $40 million over the cancellation of the India series, which had been scheduled for January-February this year.

Sri Lanka agreed to replace India and split their tours in two visits — playing the three-match one-day series last month.

“I had a nice feeling in Karachi and said this before when I came for the one-day matches last month. I have a great time as a commentator. It is a fantastic experience with top-class hospitality and arrangements,” said Cork.

Cork said he hoped the ICC would resolve the issue.“I, as a cricketer, would hope the ICC get together with Australia, England and South Africa and try and entice people to come back to Pakistan,” he stated.

“I am sure if the ICC helps, the likes of Australia, England and India would come back and play here because people of Pakistan love their cricket.”

Asked if he was approached by the ECB to give his feedback on the situation in Pakistan, Cork said: “If the ECB approaches me I will give them my feedback.”

Sri Lankan coach Bayliss also backed Pakistan as a cricketing venue.

“I know Geoff [Lawson] was comfortable coaching here,” said Bayliss of former Australian fast bowler who coached Pakistan in 2007 and 2008. “The [Australian] umpires are comfortable coming here, the only difference is that we all come here as individuals.

“The Australia and English coming here as teams, there may be a possibility of being targeted. But actually being here is quite different. I’m comfortable here and quite glad to be here.”—AFP

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