Plans to renew India-Pak Sahara Cup series in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur may be the venue for the next edition of the Sahara Cup series between India and Pakistan next year reported Gulf News on Tuesday. Though the Indian Government is yet to decide, plans have been floated to renew the series which was previously held in Toronto. This year's edition was cancelled as the Indian government refused permission for the national side to participate in the competition.

Talking to Gulf News from Karachi, Zahid Bashir, Marketing Advisor of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said "The PCB has entered into an agreement with Sahara Television to stage the series next year in Kuala Lumpur." Bashir added "We have got a written offer of $13 million from Sahara Television to play against India for the next five years in Kuala Lumpur. Sahara Television officials will also be talking to India and try to enter into an agreement soon."

However, there has been no discussions with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) officials regarding the matter. Board secretary Jaywant Lele talking to Gulf News from Baroda said "Sahara Television is yet to approach us. We are yet to hear from them."

Sahara Television, in anticipation of the government's clearance for the forthcoming Indian tour to Pakistan in December, has also offered $15.6 million to Pakistan to obtain exclusive rights for the broadcasting rights. Bashir said "Sahara has offered this huge amount hoping that India will tour Pakistan this year and also in 2003."