The International Cricket Council welcomed on Thursday the World XI?s tour of Pakistan following the naming of the team who will travel to Lahore in September, according to a press release.

ICC Director Giles Clarke, who has served as the Chairman of the Pakistan Task Team since 2009, expressed optimism that the series will prove to the first step towards the return of international cricket in Pakistan.

?I?m delighted that Pakistan will be hosting a high-profile series, which features several top international cricketers from a number of ICC Members. This tour is not only important for cricket in Pakistan but also for international cricket since it opens the possibility of other teams, media and sponsors visiting Pakistan for bilateral series,? said Clarke in an ICC press rel

?The ICC Members releasing their top players and the respective player unions backing this series is a testament to the support the world has extended to Pakistan during these difficult times. The focus of everyone in the international game is the safe return of cricket to Pakistan.

He added that the series will prove to be an ?excellent opportunity for Pakistan fans to watch live in action not only their local stars but also the international cricket heroes.?

?I wish the PCB and the World XI best of luck and will be following the matches from the Gaddafi Stadium, he added.

ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said that ?the ICC wants to see regular international cricket being played safely in all its member countries and the World XI playing Pakistan in Lahore next month is a step towards that for the PCB.?

?The PCB?s plans for the tour will include comprehensive security arrangements for the safety and security of the players, officials, media and spectators? he said, adding ?We are optimistic that this will be the next step in a steady and safe return of international cricket to Pakistan.?