No pressure to tour - Dalmiya

Players and board officials on both sides of the border have expressed happiness at the Indian government's decision to let the tour to Pakistan go ahead, and though security remains an issue, the Indian board insisted it would not pressurise reluctant players to tour.

"India would be touring Pakistan after 14 years," said Jagmohan Dalmiya, BCCI's chief, "and not only do I envisage an excellent tour from the cricketing stand point but it would also help in strengthening the bond of friendship between the people of the two nations."

Speaking to Mid Day, Shaharyar Khan, chairman of the PCB, said that the move was a step forward, and would give peace talks a fillip. "I have been emphasizing the fact that if India played in Pakistan it would have a very positive effect on relations. Despite reservations and fears of some people I am confident the series would give the peace process a big push."

Pakistan's captain, Inzamam-ul-Haq, added that tensions associated with Pakistan-India matches would gradually dissipate if the teams played more often.

On Monday, a three-man BCCI delegation will brief the board and the government about security issues on its return from Pakistan. But with security concerns still playing heavily on the players' mind, Sourav Ganguly, the Indian captain, said he would not force anyone to tour.

Dalmiya took a similar stance and emphasized that players reluctant to tour would not be under pressure.

"Since the government has cleared the tour, the major concern of safety and security is now put to rest," Dalmiya said. "They are not going for war, but to play cricket. If somebody is not comfortable, he will not be forced to go. Someone else will go. These are the trusted lieutenants of the country."