‘There was magic in the air’

Pakistan’s former player and legendary fast-bowler Wasim Akram took to twitter to express his joy after International cricket returned to Pakistan.

Pakistan beat a star-studded World Xi team by 20 runs and the atmosphere reminded Wasim of the days gone by.

"Well done Pakistan we put on a great show last night! Like once upon a time, in what seems like forever ago, there was again magic in the air," the veteran tweeted.

This was only the second time that Pakistan had hosted an international team since an attack on the Sri Lanka team bus on 2009.

According to sources, atleast 20,000 spectators turned up for the match and even the 9,000 police officers and paramilitary forces could not curtail their joy as they celebrated some great cricket.

 Bangladesh’s Tamim Iqbal was part of the touring World XI. He opened the innings for the World XI side along with Hashim Amla from South Africa. Although Tamim started the World XI chase pretty brightly before he was removed by Rumman Raees in the sixth over. He scored 18 off 18 balls.

Earlier, Babar Azam’s 52-ball 86 allowed Pakistan to put on a massive 197 for five. World XI reached 177 for seven in reply.

"It was a historic occasion and I thank the crowd for coming in good numbers," said Pakistan skipper Sarfraz  Ahmed.

"It was a very important match and I think no praise is too high for our players, especially Azam."