The absence of regular bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan has left fans longing for the return of those thrilling encounters. While the two teams have faced each other in multi-nation tournaments like the Asia Cup and ICC events, the last bilateral series was back in 2012-13. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has passionately voiced his desire for the resumption of these series, urging both countries to prioritize cricket over political tensions.
Akmal believes that allowing India and Pakistan to play each other would be a significant step in fostering better relations. He points to the unifying power of cricket, highlighting the positive experiences of past tours and the shared love for the game among fans in both nations. “India vs Pakistan matches bring fans together. That’s why it’s known as the mother of all clashes,” Akmal told TimesofIndia.com. “We toured India several times—in 2004, 2007, and 2011. We received so much love from India and a lot of support.” He emphasizes that the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two teams are evident on the field and off, with fans in both countries enthusiastically supporting both teams.
Akmal also uses Australia’s recent tour of Pakistan as an example, questioning why India cannot follow suit. “When a team like Australia can visit Pakistan, why not India? The India-Pakistan bilateral series should happen. Both governments need to sit and talk. This will benefit cricket,” he said.
Akmal’s call for a resumption of bilateral series comes at a time when India’s participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan is in doubt, due to the tense political relations between the two countries. Akmal stresses that politics should not be allowed to interfere with the spirit of the game, suggesting that both governments should prioritize cricket and allow the series to take place.
The ban on Pakistani players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is another consequence of the political tension. Akmal acknowledges that the BCCI has its own rules, but he believes that a resumption of bilateral series could pave the way for Pakistani players to return to the IPL. While he doesn’t consider the IPL a necessity for Pakistani players, he emphasizes the importance of international cricket. “Let’s keep politics aside and play cricket,” Akmal concludes.
