Invitation not extended to India: PCB

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Thursday said it had not invited India to participate in the Golden Jubilee Test. But the establishment neither denied nor explained if the Jubilee Test was not scheduled between Oct 26 and 30 , why it was slotted in Pakistan's forthcoming international matches.

The statement said: "The PCB denies having sent any invitation to India for the Golden Jubilee Test nor does it intend to send one in the near future.

"The PCB chairman Lt Gen Tauqir Zia is on record having categorically stated that until cricketing relations between the two countries are normalized, there is no question of inviting an Indian team to Pakistan."

According to ICC's 10-year calender, India is also scheduled to visit Pakistan from April 7 for three Tests and five One-day Internationals.

Meanwhile, the PCB thanked TransWorld International for the help rendered by them during their current partnership. But the board stated that when the current contract expires in April next year, it will call fresh bids from all the leading contenders for the next broadcasting rights.

"The matter will be decided in a transparent manner and in favor of the highest bidder of merit. The PCB is looking forward to maximize its resources for meeting its expanding development program."

A spokesman of the TWI had Wednesday expressed his disappointment the way his company was being treated by the PCB. He had said the PCB was undermining his company's contributions and was set to award next broadcasting rights to Abdul Rehman Bukhatir's newly launched Ten Sports.