A Pakistani supporter thanks England during their tour in November 2005 © AFP

Take Karachi, for instance. A city in which Western cricket teams fear to tread, and where England were subjected to a fearful mauling in their one-off one-day match two months ago. The behaviour of the fans in the stands could hardly have been further removed from the perceived image of the city – and indeed of the country as a whole. And the same and more had been true eighteen months earlier, when India arrived to launch their historic tour in 2003-04, and left to a standing ovation after one of the most thrilling one-day matches in history. It is too easy to focus on the negative aspects of the culture clashes that occur when two nations and their fans encounter each other in a cricket match. Just as often, by playing out their differences on the field, countries and cultures can be drawn closer together through sport.

For some reason, possibly because the booze-and-birds seekers save their money for the more culturally accessible venues such as Australia and South Africa, England’s trips to the subcontinent are especially good at bringing out the best in both sides. It helps no end that the hosts are always genuinely pleased to receive their guests – something that cannot always be said of the reverse legs. And, of the few England fans who do venture out to such far-flung venues, the majority tend to embrace their surroundings for better or worse – living frugally, eating locally and generally mucking in.

Whereas Pakistanis are paragons of virtue on their own turf, English and Australians are especially prone to let their standards slip when their turn comes to play the host. The problems, as with all such things, occur when the numbers escalate and the beer starts to flow, and that all-pervasive football culture begins to take hold. Some of the taunts that Jason Gillespie was subjected to during the last Ashes series (“Where’s your caravan?”) were, in their own way, as offensive as some of the things being said Down Under this summer, but the true potential for embarrassment comes when Asian teams are in town. The incident in 1992, when a pig’s head was thrown into the Pakistani enclosure at Headingley, remains one of the most vile episodes of English cricket’s recent past. Given the current international climate, we can only hope that any potential problems ahead of Pakistan’s visit this summer are nipped in the bud well in advance.

By and large, though, England’s cricket fans remain a good-humoured and amenable bunch, particularly those whose interest extends beyond a single day in a summer. The last mass gathering of English fans overseas took place at Cape Town last winter, when the Newlands Brewery was drunk dry in the new year sun, and several thousand inebriated fans sang raucous but good-humoured songs as England slumped to a long and lingering 196-run defeat. The local economy loved the English input, the team were grateful for the unequivocal support, and the South African fans were happy that at least one section of the English contingent were showing some resistance.

England’s overseas reputation owes much to the impressive self-policing of the Barmy Army, who began life as a ramshackle collective on the 1994-95 tour but have morphed into a formidable stakeholder in the game. During that same Cape Town match, senior members of the organising entourage – such as Paul Burnham, the chief spokesman, and Katy Cooke, the secretary – spent much of the game collecting for a raffle to aid the victim’s of the Asian tsunami, which had struck less than a week earlier.

At Durban two days beforehand, the bar takings from the end-of-match celebrations on the beachfront had also been diverted to the same cause. These are small gestures, maybe, but every little helps the reputation of the game and of those who follow it.

Well to add to above is that all round the world it is thought and paksitan is linked with terrorism. But its totally opposite since the 9/11 pakistan has been in the fore front with other nations of the world to fight such acts. And all the pakistani people are very very hospitable.and this virtue of hospitality roots deep into their moral, cultural and religious background.All pakistani are fun loving and peaceful nation. and for cricket fans world over its a place where people really love cricket and there is bright sunshine and beautiful northern areas.I altoghater agree with Andrew about his discription about Pakistan.

Nice article, was interesting to get an insight into the nature of the pakistani fans and the rest of the countried that you mention.

The support Pakistani Crowds are showing for foreign teams is hard to find anywhere in the world.They respect foreign players. I think wrong impressions have to be burried.Test cricket can be played at any venue of Pakistan now.

Andrew Miller's comments are right on the money. I followed his diary with interest when he covered the England team's visit to Pakistan last winter. It frustrates me to no end when Pakistan receives publicity for all the wrong reasons so it is immensely satisfying when someone has something positive to say about the sub continental experience. I recall watching a 1996 World Cup quarterfinal between South Africa and West Indies in Karachi and even though Pakistan had been knocked out at that stage, the stadium was packed and both teams received unbelievable support.

I truly enjoyed reading Andrew Miller's articles and tour diaries on Pakistan...this article was another great piece. I'm glad that the Pakistani crowd is coming to notice on good terms more; especially Karachi. We're a cricket crazy nation, and love supporting cricket; we truly enjoyed supporting India, and England. However, we love supporting "Boom-Boom" Afridi the most!! ;)

Excellent article, I am glad you enjoyed yourself in Pakistan, I was there too as a British Asian, and felt so safe and secure, as i am sure most of the British visitors did. Its a pity that we don't lay on similar hospitality in the UK, but I feel your comments are correct regarding the reasons. At the end of the day its the minority that mess it up, and they are usually un-educated or kids. What can you do?!!!!

Well said Andrew, but I'd just like to draw particular attention to one point. You said:

"But place these same folk on their home patch, and they form the very model of hospitality."

Referring to the Pakistani 'expatriate' community in Britain. Well that's not entirely accurate because most of the so-called 'Pakistanis' living in Britain aren't in fact 'expatriates' at all, but rather 2nd, 3rd, and 4th generation immigrants, deriving mainly from the Mirpuri community in the north of Pakistan.

This community is known for being inherently insular, and a number of social and economic factors have lead to a large-scale 'ghettoisation' in Britain especially in the north. There is little integration or engagement with non-Mirpuris and they feel angry with Britain and the West.

Indeed, the reasons for their poor behaviour at cricket grounds are largely the same factors that have led to the rise of militant Islamism in Britain.

Pakistani crowd is now possibly one of the most well behaved and sporting crowd in the world cricket. English tour and now Indian tour have shown the well behaved nature of crowd. Hopefully this will help change world's opinion about playing conditions and hospitality of Pakistanis in general. Excellent article Andrew!

I think Andrew has a very stong point here. Being a British citizen that he is and a proud supporter of the England cricket team, he is one of the most wonderful writers of cricket. I read his tour diary with great regularity and interest.

To be known as a 'terrorist' country for so long has been one of the most disturbing factors for the Pakistanis. It is absolutely a delight to see the world now recognizing Pakistan as a wonderful country with hospitable people.

I can perhaps safely say that Pakistan may be the only country where the people are not totally biased to the home team but they also give the due credit to the touring team. I can say this because we all have the three shining examples of the tours by India(04), England(05) and India again(06) to Pakistan.

Well written article, a pleasure to read. I believe that the crowds are a big part of the game and their enthusiasm adds to the quality of the sport. Its been an honor to watch the Pakistani crowds supporting the game and players whose performances have sent an exciting wave to a cricket loving country.

As a true karachian and cricket lover i am pleased to read this article which dipcits the true image of the karachi people,infact the most supportive and generous crowd in the world

I am an Asian American, after watching the recent cricket games on TV.I was so proud to be Pakistani.Thumbs UP to fellow pakistani's.....way to go

Crowd behavior is as important a factor as a good pitch and weather conditions, for an exciting game of cricket. I think apart from a few exceptions, when missiles are being thrown at the players, Pakistani crowd has learnt to appreciate good cricket and behave in a nice way like any other good crowd in cricketing world. I am sure Andrew Miller's comments will go a long way in establishing Pakistan as one of the best places to play international cricket.

I also followed Andrew's diary throughout the England's tour to Pakistan. Pakistan's crowd has been exemplary and the rest of the teams should learn from them, specially after the recent crowd behavour incidents in Australia.

Not to belabor the point made by Issam Ahmed, Andrew is indeed referring to English crowds not Pakistani crowds. Those might be Pakistani fans but were Englishmen. A better picture of them is what you see in Pakistan. I am proud of them.

I went to Pakistan when India visited Pakistan last time. Karachi laid pitch to one the most exciting games of cricket in the history. Even though Pakistan lost, we Indians were astonished (the word doesnt do justice to our feelings) to see the Pakistani spectators standing up and applauding the Indian players.

Apart from that, I have also noticed the fact that Pakistanis are the only crowd that really cheers everyone, home team and opponents alike. Also in the current series they have been such a treat to watch as they have cheered every boundary by an Indian. This is something that i wud like to see in Indian crowd as well. I think we are not that supportive of opponents esp if the opponent is Pakistan. We have had a lot of problems esp in Kolkatta.

PS: The only time when Pakistanis dont cheer others is when "BOOM BOOM" departs. Well, tht is understandable. However, i find it quite deploring when stadiums are emptied after he get out. I think they should come with the mentality of cheering the team rather than cheering a man. This is something we indians are really good at.

A Really Great Piece of Writing, Its really intreguing to know What An Englishman has to say about the Behaviour of the Pakistani Crowd. Thumps Up for Andrew. I have been Following His Tour Diary on Cricinfo, and they really are great especially the one in which he Described his visit to Karachi. I think PCB should take notice of such journalist & hire them for there public Relation Activities or Atleast consult with them so that Foreign Teams are Convinced well by the PCB to Visit each & every City of the Country....

Great article Mr. Miller. I have to say that I am proud to see the Pakistani crowds of late and the way they have welcomed foreign guests especially their arch rival India! Well done Pakistan!

Excellent piece. In particular I think it is fantastic that the Indians have been welcomed so much, and a goodwill sries has been played without incident. Great for cricket. Great for Pakistan. Great for India. Great for the world.

i totally agree with Andrew i followed his article during whole series from multan dust to karachi nights and now recent tour of india has shown that people of pakistan specially cricket loving fans are desperate of criket and negative image and publicity done in media and cancellation of tours by westindies and australia have increase hunger and passion not the otherway round i am from pakistan orgin but havent visited my pakistan long time but now i think cricket has not only changed status of this country as host but also travel friendly country

Pakistan's team is a changed one but the country and people are still the same loveable, friendly people as they always were. I enjoyed the article Andrew, great work. In the recent past you have become a voice for the sorrow hearts of Pakistanis who just wish people would give their country a second chance. Thanks a lot.

The point that Andrew has made is spot on. It's a shame that Australia hasn't toured there for quite some time because after visiting Pakistan a fair amount of times, people living there have a fondness for players such as the Waugh brothers, Michael Bevan, Shane Warne etc I think before all the legends disappear from the team such as Warne, Gilchrist, McGrath, they should tour Pakistan while there still in the team so the Pakistani people can witness the best team in the world playing in there backyard.

I've said it before and I'll say it again: Andrew Miller is the best writer on cricinfo. He has an understanding of the sport and, importantly, things outside of it as well.

I would, though, urge him to write on the bowlers he came across on the Pakistan tour especially since he got to watch the practise games. Comments on the likes of Najaf Shah, Irshad, Shahid Nazir, Yasir Ali and also Bazid Khan etc would be greatly appreciated.

This gives the rest of the world soemthing to learn from. I was ashamed of the australian crowd yesterday. Sri Lanka were not given a fair play with all the raving and ranting. Good for you Pakistan in setting a great example for the rest of us.

I read Andrew Miller's diary quite regularly, not only because he is a wonderful writer but also because his comments are so unbiased. Even in this article, he praises the hospitality of the Pakistanis and also highlights the negative points about the behavior of the English crownd against the Pakitan team in England. Pakistanis have always been a very people, be it Inida or England or any other country. Its just the wrong perception about this country that makes foreigners stay away from it, which I assure u, is absolutely wrong. Pakistan is a very hospitable place, and I say that with complete honesty.

Andrew Millers diary during England's tour of Pakistan was a refreshing take on how there are some people who do still see us Pakistanis for who we are and not what the media potrays us to be. It was very calming to see that he always had something positive to say about the country and the people especially since he seems to have mingled with the real Pakistan. Keep it up Andrew

Andrews views will definitely weigh heavy upon the cricket managers around the world when they will be deciding whether to play a Test match in Karachi next time or not.i assume that the answer would and should be yes.Great work Andrew,for stating the obvious.

I HAVE READ MILLER'S DIARY REGULARLY WITH GREAT INTEREST.IT'S NICE TO KNOW THAT HE HAD A GREAT EXPERIENCE IN PAKISTAN AND MADE ME REAL PROUD ABOUT OUR COUNTRY.I LIVE IN THE USA FOR THE PAST 23 YRS AND I HAVE WATCHED PAKISTAN TEAM PLAY ON SATELLITE TV.THE CROWDS IN PAKISTAN HAVE REALLY IMPRESSED ME BY THEIR DISCIPLINE AND IMPARTIALITY AND ADMIRATION OF PLAYERS LIKE FLINTOFF, PIETERSEN, SEHWAG AND DRAVID.

Amazing comments Andrew!!! I also followed your articles while the English series was on here in Pakistan....really respect your impartial comments. I have to say that teams have to come over to Pakistan, to see for them self how hospitable the crowd and nation could be as a whole. I do understand Pakistan may not offer visitors the luxury of night clubs or pubs, but there is soo much more that is to see and enjoy. I hope the English crowd reciprocates the good will gesture when Pakistan tours them in summers...

p.s hope Indians are enjoying them selves, i guess there were more Indians then Paki's in Lahore the other day during the match hehehe

Well done Andrew for highlighting what the world had forgotten. None of the teams should be afraid to play in Karachi. If they come with an open mind they will enjoy the most in Karachi. Specially with the available security,, these venues become the safest in the world to play cricket.

I m a cricket commentator for Radio here and was doing ball by ball running commentary on the second test against England in Faisalabad. When we left for Faisalabad in a coach fron Rawalpindi, it was half full with Barmy Army ( the English team supporters). It was such a great journey in which we shared cricket experiences with English cricket lovers. During the match, some of them visited our commentary position too and a couple of them had lunch with us . How can i forget Andy, a policeman from Birmingham who was enjoying his trip to Pakistan. I visited Barmy Army stand too to hand over Andy and Daz some photographs and what a fun it was to be with them when they were all backing up Andy Flintoff on the fourth evening. On my wayback to Islamabad we had company of many English fans. They were so full of praises for Pakistani hospitality not only at Faisalabad but wherever they went. In their words, they watched quality cricket and had great time here in Pakistan. It was a big compliment for Pakistani people. I just wanted to give my first hand experience in response to Andrew Millers nice write up.

Its a wonderful article about the behaviour of Pakistani fans towards foreign crickers.

I would love to read Andrew Miller articles on criket.

Could I request Andrew Miller to get this article published in English newspaper like Telegraph, times or Guardian.

This is an excellent article. Because of some unruly idiots (they are everywhere in the world, country doesn't matter), majority of the cricket community is deprieved of a great entertainment which to me is unfair. Sport doesn't have boundaries and we should not allow culprits to spoil the fun and sheer joy of cricket.

A very Good Article By Andrew Miller. There is big misconception against Pakistan and its Supporters. Pakistani supporters are lovers of game and they always appreciate the Team and Player who plays well. They enjoy the beauty of cricket.
During the Indian Tour of Pakistan, you can watch great support of Indian Team. This is a proof of Pakistani Hospitality.

Indeed an EXCELLENT article. I would like to concede here that i think INDIA too stands out when it comes to hospitality, I would love it even more if the crowds there show the same neutral support for Pakistan as Pakistan shows towards India. More often than not, in India, during an India-Pakistan game, if an Indian wicket falls, the stadium goes dead silent, in contrast here in Pakistan, we appreciate a good delivery or a good shot, be it by any player of any team. Apart from that, both Indian and Pakistani crowds are exemplary ambassadors of their respective countries.

Thank you Andrew Miller for your just observation about Pakistani hospitality and behaviour towards foreingn teams playing against Pakistani team. Pakistanis always wish Pakistan team to win but have great respect for the good performance of foreign teams.

I have really enjoyed Andrew Miller's Pakistan tour diaries. He writes interestingly, with correct balance of wit and humour without compromising on facts. I look forward to readings his columns in future. I hope more people would read him and get correct information about this part of the world.

One of the few articles written, or at least read by me, which talks about our people, culture and values accurately. There is so much more to Pakistan then what is depicted in the media. We cherish cricket, good competition and respect fans from other nations. You will hear numerous stories from our Indian friends about general hospitality in Pakistan and almost all of them will end up with somebody been driven to the stadium, hotel or other place of interest by a Taxi driver for no charge, or been offered a complementry meal at a local resturant.

I think I speak for all of my Pakistani friends that the Westerners are very welcome to Pakistan, as long as they are not looking for Chicken Tikka Masala, as they will not find it in our part of the world. :-)

As far as crowd behaviour is concerned, most of the people go to the ground to enjoy themselves. Now it depends on the nature of the person that how he perceives enjoyment. Some time his perception may get out of hand but I think it doesn't hurt the game of cricket if we make it more crowd oriented. As an example, take the Andrew Symonds incident during the second VB final. He may give any reasoning for it as there is no court out on it. But I saw it and he was arrongant in his behaviour and deliberately pushed the supporter with his bat. The supporter was just mimicking his action when he reached 150 and he could have ignored him and walked straight. I was really disappointed to see that and this gives some insight to the characters of these arrogant cricketers that some people think of as their idols.
Pakistanis take cricket as a game and we don't make GOD out of our cricketers. Although we support our team but most of us go to the ground to enjoy cricket and the atmosphere at the ground and encouraging the opposition is a part of it and believe me there is no such thing as good country and bad(terrorist) country in the world. There will always be good people and bad people in any country. Pakistani cricket followers are fun and peace loving people and will always welcome any guest as a "Guest of Honour".

i think anrew miller is quite right i also dicsussing to our felow about( pakistan) crowd behaviour during england and india visit, great example when india played 1st match in khi in 2004 tour india post huge total that was nail bitting
finish eventually pakistan lost but karachi crowd appreciate indian team despite their home team lost

Excellent article Andrew! I loved your tour diary of Pakistan and am a keen follower of your articles (your liking for Pakistan has obviously a hand in it, but I like your articles on pure cricket grounds as well). I even invited you to be my guest in Karachi but I think it didn't get through to you. On the article, I think this is the era of reviving of cricket and cricket culture of soberness and gentlemanship; albeit few ugly incidents happening here and there. And this time round flag bearers of this revival are people who were considered least likely to be. Way to go!

Well Andrew you were long due for a great article and you just did that!.. I understand how much fun you had in Pakistan, visiting places, eating out and doing Radio Shows ;) However just to add on what you mentioned about Pakistani Fans behaving badly in England at Netwest cup... I personally feel that these people dont call themselves Pakistani outside cricket field. These are 3rd generation Pakistanis and i can tell you from my own experience they hate it when they are refered to as "Pakistani". You now know how "Real Pakistanis" behave..

well i am living in turkey for almost 5 years now i am a big big fan of cricket and i am really thankful to the cricinfo team for providing us the opportunity to enjoy cricket here. as we donot have any cricket channel here.
coming to the Andrew'z diary i think he had a deep insight into the pakistani nation. just as mentioned by some other followers we have been a really supportive patient and respectful crowd for all the oppositions. I think no team should be afraid to come to pakistan and play here. They'll get the five star hospitality Pakistani style.
Farhan Ali
MiddleEastTechnicalUniversity, Ankara(Turkey)

After Andrew’s Tour Diary of England’s tour to Pakistan, I was expecting this article coming out sooner or later. The way he covered some of the intense aspects carefully and put his mind to understand some hardcore cultural aspects at times was admirable.

Pakistani culture is indeed quite versatile (West may call it boring) as compare to some of the other cricketing nation. Yes we are fun loving and at times reach the height of hospitality, but the only difference between us and cricketing nations such as England, Australia and India is that we are just unable to commercialise these aspects and tend to keep it to our self which resulted in less foreign audience coming and exploring Pakistan.

Thanks Andrew, your article will help this cause a long way.

Hi Andrew,
I am one of those unfortunate souls who left Pakistan at an early age. I miss Pakistan dearly, and cricket has brogught me closer to home. I love watching and playing the game, BUT the best part of Cricinfo, is by far the diaries you and Siddhartha Vaidyanathan have written on your visits to the country. It reminds me of home, it is funny, warm, and often brings tears to my eyes, because I miss the country. But many many Thanks to you and Siddhartha for taking the time to write them, believe me for some people it is incredibly heart warming. I often try to imagine as you guys describe your experiences, and for people like me who have not been home in ages, it is pretty close to being home...Please pass my thanks to Siddhartha Vaidyanathan.

I cannot agree more with Andrew. I think the image has to be changed more so... We need continuous support from foriegners who play this game... And such words give encouragement not only to the PCB and others but also to the general public... Who does'nt like to be praised?

Hi Andrew,

Nice piece. I was meaning to contact you before about your articles, but now I can comment on this comment box!

I'd just like to thank you for your diary in the tour of Pakistan, it provided a good insight into the tour, and we didn't just hear of 5 star hotels, or police. so thanks for your nicely written pieces.

I have not come across too many people showing appreciation where it is deserved. Your tour diaries are a delight to read and the anticipation is wonderful. however, i would also like to mention that of all crowds that arrive to watch a cricket match, perhaps the most appreciative of them all are those in Britian. perhaps because they really love and enjoy the game, and not indulge in ridiculous obsessions of beating the hell out of the visiting team (of course everyone would want their own country to emerge victorious). there still is a long way to go for pakistani crowds but nevertheless it is sweet & heartening to see them make the initial effort. let us hope other crowds in other countries follow suit.

I think Andrew Miller should not write such articles because people would start calling him insane. Mentioning Pakistanis hospitable, wellcoming and well behaved by an English writer must be very difficult to digest by many here in UK.

I just want to mention one very interesting thing here and that is few months back one Pakistani TV Channel showed a reality show named as "George Ka Pakistan" (George's Pakistan). The basic theme of the programme was that one citizen of England would live in Pakistan for few days as a commoner doing all sorts of things and similarly a Paksitani would also do the same in England. The amazing thing was Mr George was so impressed by the hospitality and warmth of common Pakistanis that he is now settled in Pakistan bieng given citizenship.
And guess what happened to that Pakistani who came to England as part of the programme. He ended up in Prison after few days and finally deported with in two months.

Its a nice article and Pakistani fans seem quite happy about it.But,we Pakistanis should not forget that cricket match is not the 'first & last' place to improve image of a country.

Amazing article Andrew, I was actually following your articles throughout the Winter and especially during the England Series in Pakistan. Some of the comments written by you about Pakistan are amazingly heartening to read and more so because you are representing your views as a foreigner. I find it hard to imagine how you must be feeling before going into Pakistan to cover the series, with so much expectation. Expectation both posiitve and negative. With so much written in the media after the 7/7 london bombings etc, the image of Pakistan was completely shattered, even though it seemed that Pakistan had nothing to do with the atrocities.

Just to add one more thing, I was sitting in Barbados during the England Pak one day series and was desperately trying to find a place to watch the matches. Surprisingly, being the second home of cricket in the past, there was no such place in the whole of Barbados that was showing the matches. It seems that the whole of the caribbean is being taking over by football. Trust me it is not the same to be not able to watch cricket and just follow it on cricinfo. But still, many thanks to cricinfo to cover the series beautfully, and many more thanks to Andrew for its amazing tour diary. Sometimes, after reading it my patriotic side came out like never before, and even the lady in the internet cafe started to think I am insane. But heh, how would she understand my feeling for Cricket?

Well none the less, it is lovely to be back in London, watch ARY Digital and cherish the series between India Pakistan. Hopefully many more are to follow and lets hope that through cricket we can make this world a better, more peaceful, and specially a more tolerant place to live in.

Great Article, Andrew. It was heartening to see you praise the Karachi crowd, especially. The people of Karachi have not had much cricket in the recent past. Furthermore Karachi is a big city with a large population and having one match a year does not quench the thirst of the cricket crazy fans of the city.
It was also interesting that the English are not as welcoming as hosts as their Asian counterparts. Come on English fans, rise to the occasion this summer!!!

Thoroughly enjoyed Andrew's article on hospitality. It seems like this very word is gradually eroding from our minds the world over!

commemnt made by Issam Ahmed about Mirpuris was distasteful and nothing but a sweeping generalisation about any group of people. I'm quite offended and I'm not even a Pakistani!

Very interesting article, and i must add that this hospitality can never be duplicated anywhere in the world. As we cheered all england players and sometimes even replicated their home crowd. I myself went to a stadium to see a match and fully supported both teams's sportsman spirit. Lastly i hope u liked my beloved country and will soon come again for a thrilling series.

Hi, I am in Pakistan right now watching the India v Pak series. I have follwed the Teams everywhere and have received a good response from all. I could not agree more with Andrew that these people love there cricket and the atmosphere here is v friendly. Its amazing to see the support of the locals for India and for England when they were touring. Even after loosing the match, the fans kept calm and did not get roudy.
I think Indian fans should learn from this too. when Pak came to India last year they did not get this kind of support from the locals but I think it should be both ways!!

I enjoyed Andrew Miller's article. As an Indian, I was somewhat apprehensive about visiting Pakistan. However, the fantastic hospitality and friendliness that we (my husband and family) encountered during our 2004 visit encouraged us to go again this year. The wonderful experience was repeated. Well done, Pakistanis! I only hope that India can show the same openness and hospitality to both Pakistan and England.

So true!! Pakistani crowd has proved to be the best cricket crowd in the world!! I am currently in Pakistan with the Indian team. Its not just the crowd, generally people are awesome! One of the finest nations on Earth! And on an honest note, we Indians have a lot to learn from Pakistanis!!! These people have the finest qualities of humanity!!! Just love them!! I wish I could be reborn in a Pakistani family!!! Sorry mum and dad!!

I used to eagerly wait for Andrew's articles while he was in Pakistan. I enjoyed his comments on the games, but mostly I loved his sense of observation and "being a human" among other humans, looking at the core of a society and it's people and rsing above the misconceptions that we tend to live with. We need more people like Andrew in the times that we are living in.

Very nice post Andrew Miller, hospitality has always been a trait of the sub-continent people, and truly we [the sub-continent] are far ahead in this field to the rest of the World..

Being a citizen of Karachi, a die-hard fan of Pakistan Cricket and a lucky viewer of that epic Indo-Pak 1st ODI at National Stadium Karachi [2004], i have always been inclined towards supporting Cricket.. Incidents do take place in all parts of the World, in the VB series South Africans got disappointed by the Australian Crowd that even lead them to think about not to come to Australia again, they [Australians] are considered to be one of the mannered watchers of cricket.. But the Pakistani people have mostly mannered like a gentlemen.. What happened in England in the Natwest series, does not mean that Brittish-Pakistani’s are ill-mannered or what, but it is just that patriotism and enthusiasm of watching their heroes get them going..

I still remember when Rahul Dravid got out on 99 at Karachi, we all were standing and anticipating his 100 but unfortunately he got out! Inside edge bowled by Shoaib [Akhtar]. Instead of celebrating the Indian wicket, the crowd was giving Dravid a Standing ovation for his brilliant innings.. And who can forget, just before this match the whole Stadium was shouting “Saachin – Saachin”, and Tendulkar must be feeling as if it is Mumbai not Karachi..

Firstly, what Andrew Miller writes has to be appreciated for its tone of honesty. Secondly, we the sub-continent fans of cricket
(we means both India and Pakistan)need to understand that cricket is now our sport and we are the bosses of this game for a long time to come from now on. Let us set aside our bitterness and bias when we are at the stadia and applaud genuine moments of the game. It might not be perfect still but let us try and endeavour for a model code of behaviour whenever the opposition wins. As an Indian, I feel disappointed when our cricketers are attacked while fielding in the deep, like it happened in the last two ODIs during this series. My dear Pakistani bhailog, cheer your team and spare the other. This holds good when your team comes to our country. In all, if cricket is to remain a manic obsession, we fans across the border need to join hands and clasp it firmly for a long time to come.

I thank Andrew Miller wholeheatedly for writing some positives about the city of Karachi, the country called Pakistan and its hospitable people. Just as there is no place in the cricketing world where security, neutrality and respect for visitors can be taken for granted, no cricketing venue should be condemned simply because it has had a poor reputation in the past. I live in United States and there are places here I wont dare visit a second time, because I have been a victim of intimidation, threat and extortion several times.

I thank Andrew Miller wholeheatedly for writing some positives about the city of Karachi, the country called Pakistan and its hospitable people. Just as there is no place in the cricketing world where security, neutrality and respect for visitors can be taken for granted, no cricketing venue should be condemned simply because it has had a poor reputation in the past. I live in the civilized west" and there are places here I wont dare visit a second time, because I have been a victim of intimidation, threat and extortion several times.

I followed Andrew Miller`s articles throughout England`s tour to Pakistan. His initial articles were quite degrading and sometimes insulting to the hosts in general. Gradually as the tour progressed and I guess seeing that this hospitality is actually inbred in Pakistani psyche then just an attempt to please a foriegner, i saw him change his mind about 2/3rd of the way through. His first positive article I thought was about Multan and he built up from that.

Being a Pakistani living in UK for many years I have seen what the newspapers write about us here. Not just the general public but cricketers too. I am pleased that Andrew Miller finally managed to wash a westerner`s bias from his eyes and started to see and write about the true image of Pakistanis.

I attended the Pakistan - India one day at Rawalpindi on 11 Feb (I'm an England fan, and wore my England hat) and was amazed to see the good behaviour and good humour of rival India and Pakistan fans, including an impromptu 'bhangra' dance which everyone joined in at half time! This wouldn't happen between such close rival fans elsewhere in the world. Well done the people (but not the governments) of South Asia!

Gday

It was refreshing to read Andrew' diary. The way Pakistani' have entertained Indians and Pomies, it has changed my views. Our Oz team should visit pakistan. They seems to be hospitable people.

Cheers
Campbell

Nice article. I loved reading his tour diary during England's recent visit to Pakistan. I wish many more foreigners could come to Pakistan, to see, experience and let the world know that Pakistan is not like it is portrayed in the media all over the world. I wish the truths and realities be known to end the fears and paranoia of the outside world. The tour diary, this article and comments from non Pakistanis here, say it all.

Andrew,

It was a pleasure reading your tour diary of England's tour to Pakistan and now this follow up article. If there's anything that unites Pakistanis (besides food!), it's cricket. Due to the unfortunate protrayal of Pakistan in the media (which, admittedly, we Pakistanis have a large hand in) we've been starved of cricket. Thanks for the awesome reads and come visit us again!

I was impressed with the article just like every one else but its even more heartwarming to see all these comments on the article, full of praise for Pakistani fans and Mr Andrew Miller who must feel like a Champion writer. I have been living in USA for a long time now and never ever in my life i have seen Pakistanis so bonded. One article can go such a long way for him I bet Mr Miller did't know that. Great job readers and writers. Welcome to the new ERA. Lets be PROUD and hold our heads HIGH. Pkaistan Zindabad.

Reading your articles is like travelling in a time capsule, so real, vivid and natural. Thanks for taking out the time to explore the Real Pakistan and sharing the experience with your ardent readers. God bless you.

As a Pakistani, I would just like to thank Andrew Miller for his brilliant tour diary of his visit to Pakistan.

I love to read these cricket diaries both by Andrew and Siddhartha and I like their interaction not with big names of cricket but with commoners. These articles give a very honest and real perspective of Pakistani people unlike what we read in foreign newspapers. Keep up the good work.

Andrew's diary was one of the highlights of Englands recent tour to Pakistan. The observations coupled with impartial commentary made excellent reading. Throughly enjoyed it all. Also grateful that someone showed Pakistan as it really is, concentrating on the people and their unending love for the game and all that goes with it.

I ONLY WISH INDIAN FANS WOULD LEARN SOMETHING FROM PAKISTANI FANS!
WHEN PAKISTANIS CAME TO INDIA NOT ONLY WERE THEY JEERED BUT EVEN BOTTLES WERE REPORTED THROWN ON THEM...
INDIAN PPL I THINK ARE TOO MISERLY ...
TRULY & HONESTLY PAKISTANIS ARE ONE OF THE GREATEST OF NATIONS ON EARTH (COUNTING US INDIANS AS WELL).

Nice to read this kind of description about my country's fans. This is 100% true that we are a peaceful nation and love cricket very much and try to be very good hosts. Actually i would like to add one more thing in this article that This is only our Politicians who make india and pakistan hate each other otherwise we as people of Pakistan and India still want to be friends and also love to visit each others countries. I feel bad when we lose to india but i still i appreciate India for playing so well.

Nice one! I rememeber following Andrew's tour diaries on Englands recent tour to Pakistan and I must say im thoroughly impressed by not only his writing skills but the way he explored the country Pakistan really is! Having lived in Karachi since birth and visited many ODI's including the latest Pak vs England match i can tell you that Karachi is the most sporting crowd in the world... i have never seen this much support given to any visiting team by any other venue in the world. There are a lot of venues in the west and also down under that need to learn from us! As for the roudy behavior he mentioned about British 'Pakistanis', generalisations should not be made, however i would still agree with Amer Hussains comments on such people promoting 'ghettoism' and being 'aloof of their identity'. British born 'Pakistanis' should not be used to judge the people of Pakistan as they have nothing to do with their homeland and have been brought up in a British environment which teaches them nothing about being a true Pakistani! PAKISTAN ZINDABAD!

Of course Pakistanis would be such fantastic hosts. They are proud of their land, as are the Indians. Both people have big hearts and are just waiting to give someone hospitality. England, Australia and such countries are suspicious of everyone who comes to their country.

I agree with Andrew Miller. The Pakistan tour is a culturally enriching experience. I have just returned to Sydney after watching the recent Test series between India & Pakistan & cannot speak too highly of the hospitality of my hosts.Their warmth, generosity & friendship will long be remembered even though the cricket & the wickets prepared were eminently forgettable.
Not for one moment did I feel unsafe or unwelcome & local spectators tolerated my raucous support for India with good humour & understanding.

There is a lot to see during the non-cricket days & the food is mouth watering.

The Pakistan Cricket Board is also one of the most professional outfits & shames the BCCI in every administrative way -all that the BCCI is interested in is in making money with nary a clue nor plan on where to spend it.

Hello gr8 article like all the others wch u did wrote during England's tour here we r a cricket loving nation infact my favourite batsman are Rahul Dravid & Sehwag (after Boom Boom i.e) we just wanna have gud cricket here thats all nothing more then that so everyone is wellcome here and thnx my Indian freinds for coming here and enjoying ur selves and in the end may God bless all of the Cricinfo staff u guys r the real deal man keep up the gr8 work thats all adios every one....

If we could ban alcohol in our cricket grounds then everyone in the crowd would behave sensibly.

One of the key reasons behind Pakistani crowd's good behaviour is the zero tolerance policy on alcohol. Obviously Muslims are the most hospitable people in the world contrary to what the media might portray. Hence Pakistanis are no different. Srilankan team is going to play Tests in Bangladesh now. I can assure you that they will not be subjected to racial abuses as they and South African cricket team have experienced in Australia.

It's sad to see that despite having realised that beers flowing everywhere in the cricket ground is not the ideal scenario, we are not talking about zero alcohol policy. Its easy to say that we would like zero tolerance policy regarding racism, but no one in the crowd can get drunk, then it minimises the chances of such abuses happening again.

I read this article , and followed Andrew Miller's Diary during Pakistan Tour of England .
Being a Karachite i can understand why people from other places are afraid to come here .but The crowd of Pakistan is very well behaved and you will not find them biased .
i dont think i need to say much .because the other people's comments are reflecting it all!

Are these the same Pakistani crowds who didn't stand when the Indian national anthem was played, when the Indian soccer team toured last year? Perhaps crowds at soccer are different than at cricket?

A question for Pakistani cricket fans: on this tour by India, we've seen lots of photos with fans of indeterminate nationality wearing the colours of both teams. Are any of those fans Pakistani? I'm genuinely curious.

oops..I just can not beleive the amount of comments. This says the whole story. I am from India and beleive me I can understand the mentality of Pakistani fan, it's no way different from an Indian fan. We( India and Pakistan) were/are/ will be known as the best host, since guest for us is GOD. It's there rooted in the culture.

I have also been impressed with Pakistani crowd. They are very mature and sporting. Well, I think we Indians have a lot of catching up to do in this regard. These days, Indian fans don't even spare their own cricketers, let alone foreigners. Recently I watched an India-SA match and there was a group of unruly college kids in front of me that was incessantly hurling abuses and cracking jokes at Sehwag who was standing only a few meters away from us at long on. I was amazed and ashamed at the same time that they were indulging in such behaviour.

I read very keenly whatever Andrew Miller has to write. Its a good thing that true flavour of Pakistan hospitality has been seen and highlighted, especially by a person who had not known or had a different opinion (as most of us have) of Pakistani crowds. Andrew Miller's diary and comments may be surprising to most of the readers but I must say it is exactly like it was written. Its a shame it is not portrayed this way but coming from a neutral, unbiased person its quite heartening to hear.

just want to thank all the non-pakistanis for their comments. finally the truth about my country and my city (karachi) is spreading. what was experienced by you guys was nothing but our true believes.

The most heartning thing was excellent feedback by the Indian Media about every city in pakistan as they had been the heart and soul of bashing my country.

ofcourse they visited themselves saw the reality themselves and realized how wrong they were in past and how wrong the indian movies were. thank you.

I am happy to read your article Andrew.....here is a writer who is unbaised.You always have a few in the crowd ho have a tendency to go off the acceptable standards of behaviour..bit majority is always reasonably good...this holds true with every communuity, society and culture. We should resist the temptation of generalizing things. However, If the west could only learn to respect the values and religious sentiments of muslims and stop mocking (under the garb of freedom of press)the islamic values, then I am sure the world would be lot better. A muslim is not a muslim, if he does not respect Prophet Jesus and Moses...but western Christian find it absolutely within their right to disrespect Prophet Muhammad. And then, shamelessly brand muslims as fundamentalist.Majority of Muslims are peace-loving,respectful, tolerant and hospitable but when provoked ( by mocking their religion) they can be very unreasonable....so people like you Andrew! can perhaps play a role in hammering some sense in the heads of European fundamentalists.

A very complete and touching article. I still think that Karachi and other cities need to take their support for foreign teams to the next level as only they can. In my opinion media can play a big role in doing that by getting involved with the crowds. As far as this article goes, it is great to see Mr. Miller touching on the points we wish some foreigner would. This article would go a long way if it gets its due place in some big newspaper or magazine(not a cricket magazine please). I read one of the comments that said that Mr.Miller should be hired by PCB. I think that is a BRILLIATN IDEA. People like him are very precious to us when it comes to improving our image in the other cricketing nations is concerned. Mr Miller brings loads of reputation for fair writing and unbiased perceptions with him and that is necessary in order for us to get to that next level.

Great and realistic article.Keep up the good work Andrew.Your comments have contributed towards the positive image of people of Pakistan.

Thank you for a refreshing take at the Pakistani crowds.We had gotten so immune to Pakistan bashing in western media that it in fact made me jump up and take notice.
Security everywhere now is an issue but has been made into a frankenstein monster when teams tour Pakistan (and the subsequent demonising of the Pakistani crowds),eg England's refusal to play in Peshawar when only a few months before the Indian football team went around the Old city in traditional tongas or the horse carriages with minimum security.
I think articles like these help clear the fog and go a long way in presenting a more clearer picture

its great to see foreign journalists potraying Pakistan in a positive light and showing us for what we are. Makes up for the fact that our own journalists, Osman Samiuddin and Kamran Abbasi, look to criticise Pakistan at the drop of a pin and make it seem inferior to the west. Thank you Mr Miller.

Its a great article.Well pakistani's are know for their hospitality and yeah,we love our team,but we loveeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee cricket so anyone taking good catches or hitting rana naved for a six,we love it:)

It brings me great joy to witness the credit being given where it is due. Thank you fans and thank you Andrew. Andrew, like thousands others I aslo read your dairy daily along with checking up scoreboards. Keep it up! Great fan of yours,cricket and its fans all the way from Calgary, Canada.

Pakistanis just wanna have fun! Thats all, I mean what do you go to the stadium for? Have a good time. Living in the west I do not get to hear good things about Pakistan a lot so this is very refreshing. It just goes to show that most of the people in Pakistan are just like any other nation. The problem is that extremists get more attention from the media. That is true everywhere in the world.

i have read each one of Andrew's diaries during the England's pakistan tour and found them written in an outstanding way.The way he depicted the sights and sounds of Pakistan was simply awesome to read and i enjoyed them so much.In this piece too Andrew has made a very valid point and i hope it would clear up the wrong perceptions about playing in Pakistan.From the diary about Multan(the city of saints) to the fabulous description of Bagh e jinnah and Atchison college, the diaries were written with great cultural sensitivity.

I have been following Andrew's tour diary during the England tour of Pakistan. It has been awesome coverage given to tour by a sports journalist.
I am very excited about the future prospects of Pakistan cricket and I am sure all the teams in the world will visit Pakistan without and reservations.

Great Article.
Neutral View Point.
True Analysis

But one thing Andrew !!!!
Although the Pakistan Team supporters in England have Pakistani origon, but they are English citizens now.

Andy's tour diaries, whether of Pakistan or Sri Lanka, are a pleasure to read. Enjoyed this one as well.

Great job Andrew Miller.
I am a Pakistani American who routinely reads your columns and watches cricket via satellite.your description of pakistani generosity and hospitality is what I grew up with.No doubt Pakistani people love cricket ( Great Sport- thanks England for a wonderful gift)and they are great sport.

Please keep writing.

I think Andrew shuld come with me baluchistan and we tribals will arrange a meeting with our great learder Osama to show him how peaceful we are.

Many a time we carry AK-47 and AK-56 to the stadium but we keep it only for self protection.If indians are throwing bottles then we will calod also fire bullets but we don't.Indian batsman are afraid of shoaib thats why they never pull shot him...

Pakistan Zindabad...

Thanks,Campbell,for saying that the Australian team should visit Pakistan and especially Karachi...we love our cricket and we'll give them as warm a welcome(maybe even warmer!)as we have given to England and India.I'm going to watch the Pakistan-India match on Sunday,and even though we've lost the series,I'm sure it will be another sellout.
Congrats,India,but we'll win the ODI series too next time!!!!

I have wrote earlier but would like to add something more:
Now we are experiencing two different Touring Diares, a different mindsets, different cultural diversity: one form Andrew and other from Siddharta.
Andrew penetrating into cultural acpects that he found pleasing or disturbing and portraying his thoughts accordingly, and for the game of cricket, whoever played good cricket he praised the team with some unbiased comments.
On the other hand, Siddharta in most of his daily diary he commented on the poor aspect of the society and at times clearly gave bad image. specially associating Animals and policeman on the road with the series win for India in Multan. Not manking any sense sir. If he had any more room, you can expect alot more coming from him but surly something is stoping him!

Visiting Lahore in 2004 was most probably the best experience I had. For the first time in my life, it felt as if Pakistan vs India cricket does not matter at all. To hell with the rivalry, we met a nation always condemned by our media; and they were the most gracious people on earth. If you want to have a good time in Lahore, wear an Indian jersey and go to any busy market. The memories will last us a life time and the friends we made, well, we will never forget them. The Indian team on that tour performed well on the field and enjoyed their time off it as well.

I was thoroughly dissappointed with the way our Indian public responded before Paks tour to India, initially with pitches being burned and demonstrations held to stop Pakistan team from visiting. It was almost embarrassing to talk to our friends from across the border. Although when Paks tour to India did get underway things were much better, however watching cricket in Bangalore was nothing like watching cricket in Lahore. Pakistans hard work in that match earned them nothing but silence from the crowd. We, and many other cricketing nation have a lot to learn from the Pakistani fans. After all, it is just a sport, results are always changing, its more important to have a good time and enjoying the spirit of the game from the stands. Something people of Pakistan know very well.

Highly reccommend everyone to visit Pakistan.

well the only people who seem to have an opinion regarding the article seems to be people of Pakistani origin. Pakistani fans have changed over the last couple of years and have learned to behave in a more civilised manner. However the same was not the case till recently and crowd behaviour in Pakistan in particular and the subcontinent in general was a bit boorish at times. The same was due ofcourse beacuse of the love of the game and their anger was mostly at thier team not playing well.

I hope all lovers of this great game will enjoy the game and not make it into a clash of two nations

A lovely article indeed, and on the money. It takes sophistication and true love of the game to be able to cheer both sides alike. The Pakistani fans have been a model of tolerance and enthusiasm. Contrast this with the shocking behaviour of Australian fans in regard to Sri Lanka and South Africa...

Very good articles written. I would like to add one more thing. The person who has given us Pakistani a very good image is non other then Cha Cha Cricket. He truely has given us as a Pakistani supporters new image.

Nice to read comments from Krishna Bedi, Pooja Metha, Anita Singh, Knares Kumar,Krishna Bedi, Campbell,Tim Hatton.

PROUD TO BE A PAKISTANI.

Pakisan Zindabad.

Its wonderful to know that people like Anita and Pooja have enjoyed their trip to Pakistan.I watched the Lahore Odi and it was like i was in a mini-India,surrounded by indians completely,now i have made so many new Indian friends and have invited them over to my place next time they visit Lahore.
Mr Miller,i think i dont need to praise your writing skills further,its already been said and done how good a writer you are.Thoroughly enjoyed reading it,because it portrayed my country to perfection,showed the world the true pakistanis who welcome everyone with a big heart.I hope other foreign teams come and visit my country as well and i hope we continue to be the generous hosts we are,OFF and onfield.=)

I read Andrews diary and then the response by Pakistanis and Indians. I feel proud to be a Pakistani now more than ever. I hope the people of Pakistan influence our politicians to improve the over all image of the country, which has been wrongfully portrayed as extermist and rigid society.

Yes, all very fine but I just wonder if the Pakistani hospitality is running out just a bit. I mean in this series twice at Pindi and Lahore missiles were aimed at Indian fielders.

i'm really pleased to know about what Andrew Miller has to say about the Pakistanis' hospitality and their unbiased attitude towards the touring teams.
i would just like to add that next time England's team visits Pakistan,it should play a test match not only in Karachi but also in Peshawar.The poeple there are famous for their hospitality and friendly behaviour throughout Pakistan It was evident during the matches against India(2004 & 2006) that they're just crazy about their cricket and turned out in huge numbers on both the occasion.

It is amazing how so many posts from 'Indians' suggesting that Indian fans learn cricketing hospitality from Pakistani fans. That's a laugh. Seems to me a case of 'pot, kettle, black.'

Yes, there are a few memorable occasions when Indian and Pakistani fans have been gracious, cheering the performance of their opponents, even their arch-rivals. But there are many more occasions when they behaved, in general, like an unruly mob. Generally, when their team wins, those who gave stand-out performances are elevated to a near-god-like status; but if the team fails, these same heroes are treated like dirt, their house/possessions are vandalized and sometimes even their family is threatened or at least intimidated. The difference is, India, with its larger population and wider media coverage, has been more visible, Pakistan less so. Both these fans are prone to blind jingoistic passion and have a long way to go in maintaining an even keel in defeat and in victory.

As an aside, let me note that it is heartening to see so many people wanting to be or find comfort in pretending to be Indians. It must be the economy.

I am interested that you do not mention the behaviour of the crowds towards their own players. In the series in Pakistan, players were booed because they weren't Shahid Afridi, and, when Afridi got out, large numbers of fans left.

I recall well the line in Cricinfo's biography of Rahul Dravid that similar happened to him since he wasn't Sachin Tendulkar.

Yet to see an English cricket crowd doing such things is unthinkable!

I don't know about Australian, South African, West Indian or other crowds, nor the extent to which this happens, but it is sad when it does.

Its really nice to read such beautiful comments about my country Pakistan.I will add something to these comments that even Pakistan has lost the series but people of Karachi are really waiting in line for tickets.they want to show this city is not exactly like it has been projected in past.

it is not an exagerration to say pakistanis are one of the, if not the, hospital people in the world.

unfortunatley, pakistan has more enemys than friends.
people who critise pakistan or pakistanis are often those who have not been to this part of the world.
and those people who have visited this place, like mr miller have throughly enjoyed their stay...

win or lose pakistani crowds always appreciates the foreign teams..

we are a sporting nation. in the world of sports pakistan has a good history..

Be it walk back from Jahagir's Tomb or the hapenings in Samiuddind's house Mr Andrew Miller has discribed people of Pakistan in exactly correct way. In so less words you have portrayed what rest of the media has not been successful in years of yapping!
Congragulation and keep up the good work
Moin Khan

its an interesting article however while mentioning the behaviour of pakistani spectators oversea Andrew must have remembered one thing , all those people invading pitches hadnt travelled from pakistan to see those matches.Infacf all of them were born and bred in united kingdom and many didnt even visit pakistan ever in their lives.So anyhting which the british asians do bad back in their own country i.e, uk cannot be used to described how pakistani people are.For the love of God u have to understand regardless of the ethnicity all the pitch invaders were BRITISH

it's good to receive these words from a gora

amazing article!! depicts the true picture of Pakistan and its people...especially the timing of this article couldnt have been more perfect.

Ok, Pakistani cricket fans are sporting and their hospitality remarkable. But how do you explain its spotty history? Which is a truer reflection of the Pakistani people? Even as I write this, there are violent protests and riots over some cartoons indicating a tendency to resort to violence at the slightest provocation.

It's interesting to note that Pakistanis are so hospitable and fun loving peaceful people.I thought they were just the opposite.

Kudos to Andrew for his tour diaries.....it has been great to read someone recognising such fine things (which always existed).

Lesson to learn is for Indians who never seem to cheer any other team and look like a stadia full of dead peple when theya re loosing...

Go on Indians - Have a heart like Pakis when you are thrashed by the England

Amazing article.... safe to say that Pakistani fans have almost evolved into the species that is perfect for international cricket. They enjoy their cricket even if the guy hitting a boundry or taking a wicket is not wearing green. I am so proud of them. And thank you Andrew, for putting an end to the speculation and stereo types of people and fans of Pakistan.

As usual a typically well thought out article from Andrew. I come from a different part of the world but my experiences in pakistan have been memorable to say the least. The people are generous beyond their means.. especially the poor folk. I mean the Rickshaw drivers, the cab drivers, the way side restaurant proprietors and their humourous teams and most of all the innocent children forced out of their homes to work in the local public transport in any nameable capacity.
Pakistan's rich folk on the other hand are a different store. Steeped in materialism they have other values and shall we say other gods too.
long live pakistan ..