I want to be a part of Pakistan army: Marlon Samuels

Pakistan has not hosted international cricket since the 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan side. Even the PSL this year was mostly played in the UAE with only the final of the tournament held in Lahore – the likes of Luke Wright and Kevin Pietersen had withdrawn from the title-round after it was moved to Lahore.

However, Samuels feels it is time international cricket returns to Pakistan and thanked the Pakistan army for providing players with top class security.

“ICC, you need to look into cricket going back to Pakistan. Because there is so much Pakistanis waiting and would love to see a lot of cricketers in front of them. Cricket should definitely come back to Pakistan now and I will continue to promote this until I die,” Samuels was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

"I want to take this opportunity to say thank you Pakistan Army for the way they dealt with the things, security was top class, we couldn’t have asked for better security.

"For me, it more than just me coming to Pakistan and play a cricket game. It’s the significance behind the team and success of the team, and smile at the face of people. I have spent a lot of time with Pakistanis in Jamaica they all are my friends. So, I am Pakistani in my heart. So, it didn’t take much for me to decide to come to Pakistan.”

The 36-year-old hoped that the staging of the PSL final would help in international cricket's return to Pakistan.

"I wouldn’t mind coming back to Pakistan if I get a metallic badge at my shoulder, cause in Jamaica I am a soldier and that’s why I wore my army suit to Pakistan. I am just waiting for the metallic, so whenever you’re ready to let me to be a part of your army, I am ready. I am a soldier in Jamaica and I want to be a part of Pakistan Army.

“And may this win, and cricket like the finals that came to Pakistan put a lot of smile and make the people happy. And I wish that more cricket come to Pakistan. I will definitely coming back to Pakistan."