Cricket: Wasim appeals for fans to keep calm

WASIM AKRAM yesterday renewed his plea for supporters to behave during Pakistan's World Cup Super Six match with India at Old Trafford tomorrow.

"I do ask all the fans to co-operate and not run on to the field - let's make it a day to remember for the right reasons," the Pakistan captain said. "All we are here for is to play cricket, it's just a game and hopefully the fans will take it in the right spirit and enjoy it."

Wasim is hopeful because the previous two occasions the sides have met, in one-day tournaments in Toronto and Sharjah, have been trouble-free, although neither event attracted the crowds expected at Old Trafford and they were played before the latest political troubles. "I have spoken to the Lancashire chairman, Jack Simmons, about security and he has assured me everything is in place so I'm not worried," he said. "In fact, I don't think there will be any trouble because we've played India in recent tournaments without any problems."

Lancashire have kept their security plans secret after talks with police and local authorities and their chief executive, Jim Cumbes, said: "We're not being complacent and are planning accordingly. Our objective is for all fans to enjoy what potentially is a wonderful day's cricket between two fine sides and to ensure safety for all concerned."