19 Apr 2012

Pakistan cricket chief optimistic of renewing ties with India

5:47 am on 19 April 2012

Pakistan officials are hoping this month's mini home series against Bangladesh will finally convince neighbouring India to renew bilateral cricket ties between the two Asian powerhouses.

Bangladesh will become the first foreign team to play full internationals in Pakistan since March 2009 when Sri Lankan cricketers and officials were attacked by gunmen in Lahore.

Foreign teams have shunned Pakistan since the attack, which killed six Pakistani policemen, meaning they have had to play their "home" matches at neutral venues.

India have frozen all bilateral cricket ties with Pakistan since 166 people were killed during a three-day siege in Mumbai in 2008.

The only gunman arrested following the attacks is a Pakistani national.

Bangladesh will play a one-day international on April the 29th and a Twenty20 match the next day in Lahore.