I have really enjoyed blogging about my experiences in Pakistan. These are memories I will cherish for a long time. I have blogged the past two Fridays and look forward to doing so until I leave. Check out the first blog here and my second installment here.

Security:

Interestingly, the question I get asked most is about security and whether I feel safe here. The simple answer is yes.

The Pakistan Cricket Board ensures that we are escorted to and from the ground, and we are grateful for all measures that are put in place on match days. But we have got around with ease away from official duty.

Careem for the Win:

Islamabad was truly amazing and as I wrote in my last blog, in our free time we moved around without security and enjoyed taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

We were introduced to the Careem App which allowed us to easily book a cab, similar to Uber.

Back to Lahore:

After the last game in Rawalpindi, we drove to Lahore. It was a great four hour drive, stopping halfway for a bite to eat and getting to Lahore with no issue at all.

What has made this tour of Pakistan so special is the hospitality wherever we have gone. Locals have taken us in and treated us like family. I have never experienced love, care and support like this while away from home. I am truly grateful.

Red hot action:

I have been really impressed by the quality of cricket played in the HBL Pakistan Super League 5.

Mostly, it’s been great to see emerging Pakistan players like Haider Ali and Mohammad Husnain shine.

From a team perspective, Lahore Qalanders, has been the most improved team. After a tough start, they bounced back really well and the city of Lahore has been buzzing.

Crowd support:

The return of cricket to Pakistan has been a resounding success. I have been in awe of how crowds have truly embraced #HBLPSL5.

There have been some rain-affected matches, but fans stayed through the rain and lapped up whatever action came their way.

Happy Birthday, Sir Viv!

It was an honour to attend Sir Vivian Richard’s birthday party earlier this week. What a humble legend who speaks so highly of Pakistan and its people.

Global interest in HBL PSL 5:

Despite Wednesday’s match being rained out in Lahore, I had the opportunity to chat to SKY Sport’s Michael Atherton about the return of cricket to Pakistan.

Sky are producing a documentary to be aired during the UK summer about cricket returning here, and I think we will start seeing the tide turn in terms of how Pakistan cricket is messaged going forward.

Local is lekker:

Learning basic Urdu words has certainly made communication easier but at times has confused people who thought I was a local 😁 and could speak the language!

There is an awesome song that has played to packed houses during #HBLPSLV and I can’t get it out of my head!

Check out Baazi by Aima Baig and Sahir Ali Bagga – It is the soundtrack of my trip to Pakistan.

More to come!

In my blog next week, I will share more about my time in Lahore as I get to see more of this great city over the next few days.

Keep the great interactions coming. I am loving our chats on social media, your support of the League and how you have embraced me in the commentary box.

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Happy Friday ❤️