Some of Pakistan’s top cricketers including Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar have supported the restoration of bilateral cricket ties with India and hoped the issue was discussed by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on his flying visit to India.
Former Pakistan speedster Akhtar pointed out that cricket had always played a big role in bringing the people of the two countries closer.
“I am happy that our Prime Minister is in India and I hope cricket ties are discussed in these big meetings. Because it is necessary to have bilateral cricket ties between the two countries,” Mr. Akhtar said.
“It is particularly important for Pakistan as whenever Pakistan and India play against each other these matches bring financial rewards for both boards and the PCB in particular needs a financial boost,” he said.
Mr. Akhtar said that he would also like to see the issue of Pakistani players in the IPL being resolved soon. “If things continue the way they are, I have a feeling by end of this year the Indians will take a decision on allowing our players in the IPL,” he stated.
Flamboyant all-rounder Afridi also wants to see more Indo-Pak series’ in future. “I hope with our prime minister also going to India, the Indian board responds positively and we see bilateral matches soon,” he said.
