Sources confirmed that PCB Chairman Nasim Ashraf has asked the ICC to send the delegation by next week so that Pakistan could start working on preparing a comprehensive security plan for the tournament due to be held in September.

"Nasim Ashraf also felt that the ICC delegation's visit and inspection of security arrangements and facilities would assist the PCB in organising the Asia Cup in June-July more smoothly," one source said.

ICC sources said that the delegation's visit would definitely take place in May and the reports of the independent security experts would be put up for consideration first at the Chief Executives meeting and then in the Executive Board meeting of the ICC in early July for final confirmation.

Security of visiting teams has become a regular and tiresome issue for the Pakistan cricket authorities with the Australians postponing their long awaited Test tour in March due to the same reasons.

With the Asia Cup and Champions Trophy to be hosted by Pakistan in 2008, the PCB is keen to ensure the ICC delegation of independent experts gives a positive report to the ICC authorities.