Pak leave no stone unturned for safe Asia Cup

Karachi: India get their Asia Cup campaign underway against the minnows from Hong Kong in Karachi on Wednesday and hosts Pakistan are keen to tell the world that there is nothing to fear in the country.

Asia Cup is being used by authorities in the country to tell the world that Pakistan is a safe place to play in with watertight security arrangements in place.

When the Indian cricket team was busy practicing in Karachi, 20 commandos were guarding it.

The Indians have been given VVIP security for the two-week long stay in Karachi as Pakistan is desperate to prove that it is a safe country to travel to.

"If Pakistan can say after this tournament that we have held a big tournament without any hitch then there is less reason for Australia and England and New Zealand to say we are not going to come to Pakistan," Osman Sammuddin, Cricinfo Editor, Pakistan, says.

Wherever the Indian team moves the 20 commandos accompany them. Also the team's entire route is cleared before it goes out.

All high rise buildings near practice areas and grounds are being guarded by security personnel.

The team also has to follow certain dos and don'ts. Such a level of security is only provided to state guests, and the Indians aren't complaining.

"When a foreign team visits a place the host country always gives some security. Here it is very nice, very tight and fool-proof," Arindam Choudhary, manager of the Indian team, says.

Clearly, Pakistan's cricket bosses know they can't afford even a minor incident and are doing all they can to send out the right message to those who are worried about the tour.

"It is to send out are a clear message. We are trying our best to make other teams like Australia and England come over to Karachi and feel as safe as any other place in the world," Asad Khan, ACP, Karachi says.

The entire area around Indian team hotel has been sealed. Pakistan knows if a high-profile team like India can back happy and safe from Pakistan then other teams can't say no.