PCB to seek report on flat track

Karachi (PTI): Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ejaz Butt has decided to seek report on the benign track for the first Test against Sri Lanka that has witnessed more than 1,000 runs being scored by lunch on the fourth day for the loss of just 11 wickets.

"I am a bit disappointed. When I get back I will meet relevant people and ask for a report on the preparation of the pitch," said Butt, who is in Dubai to finalise arrangements and dates for the ODI series with Australia in April-May.

He said the Board would try and ensure that lively and sporting tracks are prepared in future for international and domestic matches. Pakistan coach Intikhab Alam and captain Younis Khan too have criticised the pitch and made it clear they had nothing to do with its preparation.

Younis called on authorities to ensure lively and result-oriented tracks for Tests so that people come to the ground and watch matches. The PCB chief, meanwhile, rubbished claims that the track was responsible for the low turnout. Butt claimed turnout for Test matches in Pakistan had always been low.

Normally there has never been a big turnout for Test matches in Pakistan so I don't think the pitch is to blame for this," Butt said. The PCB chairman, meanwhile, said he was happy at the way Pakistan batted and especially Younis after the tall score by Sri Lanka. "I hope he goes on to make a big score," he said.