Shahid Afridi wants India-Pakistan cricket to resume wherever and whenever possible
Pakistan Twenty20 captain Shahid Afridi said that cricket India should resume irrespective any political situation, reports TOI. Speaking on behalf of the team, eager Afridi added that the resumption of India-Pakistan cricketing ties is very important.
When asked about a possible series between two neighbouring nations in Sri Lanka next month, Afridi said: "I think cricket should go on between Pakistan and India because it creates good contacts. Wherever or whenever, cricket should go on."
On Sunday, officials from Pakistan Cricket Board and Board of Control for Cricket in India met in Dubai and agreed on playing limited over series in December. The two boards decided that they will go forward with the plans if they get permission from their respective governments.
In the aftermath of 2008 terrorists’ attack on Mumbai, the cricketing ties between the two countries was totally stalled by India as the militants who wee caught during the attacks were based in Pakistan.
Even after agreeing to play six series between 2015-2023 under an agreement signed in 2014, they schedule ran into trouble because of the political tension between the two nations.
Afridi has toured India in 1997, 1999, 2005, 2007 and 2011. He urged that people in both the countries want to watch the game.
"Cricket should go on, it develops good relations and public from both sides want to watch the game," said Afridi. "It should be separate from politics, both teams should always be ready."
The 35-year-old all-rounder added it’ll be great if India come to Pakistan, as we as a country need support.
"It will be a matter of great happiness if India comes to Pakistan in this difficult time, support Pakistan and play there," said Afridi.
Pakistan became a no-go destination for international teams since March 3, 2009, when gunmen attacked the Sri Lankan team bus while it was en route to the Gaddafi Stadium to play the third day of the second Test. Eight people were killed during the attack and some players were injured.
Since then, Pakistan have been forced to play their home matches in the United Arab Emirates.
Afridi said the Pakistan team will be ready to go to India for the World Twenty20 next year if the cricket board and government give the green signal.
When the board gives us security, the government gives us security then we can go for the World Twenty20," said Afridi of the event to be staged in March-April next year.
"We have gone to India under worse situations," said Afridi of Pakistan's 1999 tour when extremists threatened them and dug up a pitch in New Delhi.
"It depends on who takes that pressure but we never felt any pressure going there and playing in India because we get a lot of love and affection there and they want us to play."
Afridi-led Pakistan will be playing 3-match Twenty20 series with England starting from November 26 in United Arabs Emirates.