Cape Town, Feb 18: Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq reiterated his belief that the continued boycott of his country by international sides is hindering their chances of becoming the leading Test nation.
 Ongoing security concerns mean the last Test match played in Pakistan was against Sri Lanka in 2009, one of just four home fixtures for the side in the last seven years.
 In that time, the Pakistanis have played “home” matches in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and even England.
 Four years ago, armed militants attacked the tourists’ team bus in Lahore, killing eight Pakistanis and wounding six Sri Lankan players, with the incident bringing an end to Tests in the country for the foreseeable future.
 There was hope that Bangladesh would tour last month, but that too has been shelved over safety concerns.
 “There is no doubt that this is a problem for us, it is difficult to be the top cricket team in the world when you do not play in your home conditions,” Misbah told reporters in South Africa, where Pakistan are currently touring.
 South African captain Graeme Smith offered his sympathy for Pakistan’s plight, but admitted he would chose not to tour the country if a proposed visit was put forward.
 “I obviously sympathise with their situation. I have been to Pakistan five times in the past, but I would have serious concerns as to my safety going there under present circumstances.”

Lastupdate on : Mon, 18 Feb 2013 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Mon, 18 Feb 2013 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 IST