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Thisara Perera leaves for Dubai to play in Pakistan for World XI team

BIPIN DANI. Dated: 9/9/2017 2:05:24 PM

MUMBAI, Sep 8: Sri Lanka's 28-year-old all rounder Thisara Perera considers himself to be lucky to be picked for the World XI team in Pakistan this month.
Speaking exclusively over his mobile from Colombo on Friday, when he was preparing to leave for Dubai, he said, "I was approached by World XI coach (Andy Flower) during the Netwest Blast (T-20 in England) and I was really excited and became happy".
"Initially my family was a bit scared and I told them that this (Pakistan) is an Asian neighboring country and we have to help them and stand behind them (in their difficult times)".
Perera will be the first Sri Lankan player to play in Pakistan after the 2009 terror attacks on Sri Lankan team.
"This is the best opportunity for me to play in the World XI and therefore I didn't want to miss it but want to grab it with both hands".
"Yes, I did consult few members of the 2009 Sri Lankan team which toured Pakistan. Believe me, no one discouraged me. Not a single played advised me to avoid this tour".
"I am proud to be the only player representing in the team. It is a big achievement to be selected".
The World XI team is scheduled to meet in Dubai for a short training. The players are also likely to be briefed there on dos' and don'ts before the team lands in Lahore for the three T-20 matches..
The players will be escorted in the bullet proof buses bought by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Thisara's experience will also be sought once he returns home and based on his and security officials' suggestions, SLC board will send its team to play one T-20 match later this month.