There has always been a bitter relation between the Indian and Pakistan cricket team. The historical rivals have often went against one another on verbal tussles, and with the recent comments made by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) do declare India as ‘unsafe’, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took the decision not to participate in the upcoming Asia Cup hosted in Pakistan. Amongst all the turmoil between the neighbouring nations, Pakistani cricketing icon Shahid Afridi speaks up on positive notions.
Since Pakistan’s participation in the 2016 ICC T20 World Cup hosted by India, the two haven’t stepped foot on each others’ soil for any international series. Even the 2018 Asia Cup had to be shifted from India to Dubai, as PCB were unwilling to send their cricketers to India.
Pakistan, while being under a ban from ICC for ten years following the Lahore attack, have been successful on conducting the Pakistan Super League (PSL) since 2015. They had their first home series after a decade against Sri Lanka following the ban lift in 2019, and are currently hosting the T20 series against Bangladesh.
Speaking to Gulf News, Shahid Afridi stated that he is expecting the Indian Cricket Team to have a tour of his country.
“The whole of PSL being held in Pakistan is a good message for all countries, as also Bangladesh touring and playing even Test cricket, shows that our security situation is good. I am waiting for India to come to Pakistan and play a series,” Afridi said in the interview.
While the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) ruled out the possibility of a neutral venue in this Asia Cup, the former skipper emphasised on a joint hosting of the tournament, without any other involvement in the matter.
The 39 year old continued: “The Asia Cup should be held with both India and Pakistan in it. It’s time Pakistan and India sat together and sorted out their problems without involving any third country.”
“They have many issues and once they sit together, it can be sorted but Asia Cup held anywhere should have India and Pakistan playing in the event.” Afridi added.
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