Former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik has joined the chorus of voices calling for the resumption of cricketing ties between India and Pakistan. The two nations are arch-rivals on the cricket field, and their matches are among the most eagerly anticipated contests in the sport.
However, due to political tensions between the two countries, they have not played a bilateral series in almost a decade, and the frequency of their clashes has been limited to ICC events and the Asia Cup.
The PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) and the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) are currently at loggerheads over the venue for the upcoming Asia Cup tournament, which is set to be played in Pakistan.
However, the BCCI is reluctant to send the Indian team to the country, citing security concerns. In retaliation, the PCB has threatened to boycott the 50-over World Cup in India if the Indian team does not come to Pakistan for the Asia Cup.
Shoaib Malik believes that sports should be kept separate from politics, as they have the power to unite nations. He feels that whenever there is an opportunity, both countries should travel to each other’s country to play sports.
He said that neighbors have the most rights to each other, and as India and Pakistan are neighbors, they should revive sports ties between them. Malik also points out that the India-Pakistan match is the most significant contest in the ICC, and not just fans from these two countries but fans from around the world love to see them play.
Malik believes that if the two countries can play each other, it can improve many areas. Sports can unite people and be a force for good in the world. By resuming cricketing ties, India and Pakistan can build bridges and unite people, irrespective of their political differences.