ECB eager to host India-Pak Test series in England

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is eager to host India – Pakistan Test series in 2011 in England.

Speaking at a press conference in London, ECB President Giles Clarke said the board has no issues in hosting the Test series if both the Indian and Pakistan cricket boards agree to the proposal.

Clarke said given the fact that Britain has substantial population of people belonging to the sub-continent, it would be a good idea to host the matches in the country.

He said the ECB wants to help Pakistan to come out of the vacuum created by refusal of several foreign teams to tour that country due to an unfavourable law and order scenario.

"Pakistani people care passionately about their cricket, and we're determined to give them the opportunity to see Pakistan playing Test cricket at a high standard. It's absolutely vital that we are able to keep them playing Test cricket until international teams can return to Pakistan. Successful Test cricket is really important." Clarke told a website.

The ECB is all set to host the Pakistan-Australia series next summer in country.

Pakistan will play two Tests against Australia at Lord's and Headingley Carnegie in July 2010. Both the teams would also play two T20's at the Edgbaston.