England security is 'guaranteed'

England tour schedule

The Pakistan Cricket Board says the security for the England touring party will be "air-tight".

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has demanded tough security arrangements for the squad and fans, ahead of their arrival on 26 October.

"The security will be air-tight," said PCB director of operations Abbas Zaidi, after meeting government officials.

"We do not foresee any problems with the security arrangements for the England and their followers."

Zaidi added: "The issue of visas for visitors from the United Kingdom for the series was also discussed in detail.

"The government officials have been co-operative in the past and they are again extending all co-operation."

Meanwhile, Pakistan spin bowler Saqlain Mushtaq is not expecting to play any part in their forthcoming Test and one-day series.

The 28-year-old underwent knee surgery earlier this year and only managed four Championship appearances for Surrey.

"A comeback against England is not likely because I still need more match practice and training," he said.

Saqlain has taken 208 Test wickets but has not played for Pakistan since April 2004 and has been replaced as their main spin threat by Danish Kaneria.

He believes, however, that concentrating on a spin-based attack could backfire on Pakistan against England.

"The last time England came in 2000, only Graham Thorpe could play spin well, but now they have several good players of spin," he commented.

"After beating Australia, England are keen to win in Pakistan and show everyone their Ashes victory was not a fluke.

"Pakistan should expect on and off the field pressure tactics and mind games," he added.