Lahore (Sports Desk): A special reception was held at Lahore’s historic Shahi Qila (Lahore Fort) in honour of players and officials from Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka participating in the tri-nation series. The event was hosted by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Mohsin Naqvi welcomed the guests at the Alamgiri Gate. They were also taken on tours of the Badshahi Mosque, Allama Iqbal’s mausoleum and Hazuri Bagh. The players and officials visited Diwan-e-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam, Barood Khana and Sheesh Mahal, where they learned about the historical sites.
Gatekeepers dressed in Mughal-era attire welcomed the guests, while a performance by a traditional drum group made the event memorable. The foreign players also enjoyed rides in colourful rickshaws.
On the occasion, Mohsin Naqvi said all the guests were special visitors to Pakistan. He added that Pakistan was a peaceful and safe country and that the Pakistani nation had a special passion for cricket.
Foreign players and match officials described their visit to Lahore Fort as a memorable experience. They said they were delighted to see the historic sites and would leave Lahore with fond memories.
Sri Lankan diplomats, the Punjab chief secretary, former PCB chairmen Zaka Ashraf and Ramiz Raja, former cricketers, and officials from the PCB and Pakistan Super League (PSL) also attended the event.