A moment that might flap the unflappable Misbah
In the National, Osman Samiuddin reflects on the importance of Zimbabwe's tour to Pakistan, for the players, the people, and the future of cricket in the country
ESPNcricinfo staff
22-May-2015
"What will go through Umar Akmal's mind when he steps out at Gaddafi Stadium against Zimbabwe on Friday? Or Ahmed Shahzad?" asks Osman Samiuddin in The National. "Together, two of Pakistan's brightest but slightly derailed prospects have yet to play a single international game in Pakistan in front of a home crowd."
Still Zimbabwe's arrival is a turning point, if not one of instant impact. The first step was always to find a full member team willing to tour. The second, more crucial, is to ensure the tour goes off safely. Only then will belief be instilled in other sides that Pakistan can be toured and it will be a long, slow and gradual process before normality resumes. For now, though, a moment that seemed inconceivably for years, is suddenly right here.