Islamabad, Jan 27: President Asif Ali Zardari has cancelled a meeting with the Pakistan team to avoid useless criticism after their dismal performance in the recently concluded three-match series against Sri Lanka.

Zardari has alternatively suggested a roundtable conference of former cricket greats to address problems affecting Pakistan cricket.

On Monday, Zardari directed Pakistan Cricket Board officials to establish a strong team for international competitions, particularly for the Pakistan-Australia series, ICC Champions Trophy and World Cup 2011.

"The government will provide high security to overseas players during the international cricket competitions in Pakistan," he said while talking to PCB Chairman Ijaz Butt at the President House after an award distribution ceremony.

Zardari said each player and official of the Australian team would be providing security during Pakistan tour.

"There is no threat to sports and sportsmen in Pakistan because the people of

Pakistan love sports and players," The Nation quoted Zardari, as saying.

However, Zardari, who is also the patron-in-chief of the PCB, said: "There was an urgent need to take effective steps to revive our undisputed position in cricket world and past glory. The officials and players have to work hard to uplift the standard of the game in the country."

Zardari asked the PCB to hold maximum inter-regional competitions, and urged veteran cricketers to convene a roundtable for revival of the game at national level.

"The former wizards of cricket should examine the present status of the game and recommend their proposals for the improvement. Pakistan was a world champion and cricketing was one of the elements of the country's international recognition," he said.

Zardari extended full support of the government in holding the international cricket matches that would be helpful for boosting the standard of the game in the country. (ANI)