The ICC World XI got a rousing reception from a sell-out crowd at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore as they arrived for the first of the historic three-match T20I series against Pakistan.
The much awaited event signals the return of international cricket to Pakistan in a significant way after years of isolation.
There was a celebratory atmosphere in the stadium as fans queued up hours in advance to secure tickets as the Independence Cup got underway under massive security-surveillance.
The 14-man World XI squad led by Faf du Plessis could be seen soaking in the atmosphere as they entered the stadium.
The South African hailed the return of cricket to the South Asian nation.
“It’s not about ourselves, great to see we can play a small part in bringing cricket back to Pakistan. There are no egos involved,” said du Plessis.
The second and third matches are also in Lahore on Wednesday and Thursday.