Former Pakistani captain Shahid Afridi responded to Rohit Sharma’s recent comment about restarting cricket matches between India and Pakistan. Afridi noted that the two teams only meet in multi-nation tournaments, not in regular bilateral series.
The rivalry between India and Pakistan in cricket is legendary, filled with intense emotions and history. The matches between these two teams are highly charged due to the ongoing tensions between the neighboring countries.
Shaheen Afridi Reacts To Rohit Sharma’s Remark On ‘IND vs PAK’ Test Series
India and Pakistan haven’t played bilateral cricket series due to political tensions, but they face off in ICC tournaments and the Asia Cup. Their last bilateral series was in 2007.
Despite efforts from the cricket boards of both nations, PCB and BCCI, government restrictions prevent the resumption of bilateral ties due to ongoing border tensions. Matches between India and Pakistan in multi-nation events attract huge anticipation and viewership worldwide.
While the future of bilateral cricketing ties remains uncertain, Rohit Sharma recently voiced his interest in playing Test series against Pakistan at neutral venues, calling it a fantastic prospect.
Rohit Sharma said on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, “I mean, we play them in ICC tournaments. I am only interested in cricket and nothing else. It’s just pure cricket that I’m looking at. I’m not interested in anything else. They have a strong team. They’ve got a superb bowling lineup. So, it will be an exciting match, especially if you play in the overseas conditions, because of their excellent bowling lineup. That will be fantastic.”
Shahid Afridi has responded to Rohit’s statement, praising the Indian captain’s positive stance. Afridi supports the idea of scheduling cricket series between Pakistan and India to enhance relations between the two countries.
He pointed out previous instances when cricket matches between Pakistan and India contributed to stronger bonds between the neighboring nations. Afridi emphasized the significance of regular matches in maintaining good relations between neighboring countries.
Shahid Afridi said on Samaa TV: “Bilkul bahut acha jawab hai, hona bhi yahi chahiye (very good answer, the series should happen). A positive statement from an Indian captain. He is also an ambassador of India. We have always said that the relationship between Pakistan and India – sports, especially cricket – has played an important role in it.
We used to go to India and play cricket there. These things build relationship. Padosi hain…Padosiyo ka haq hota relationship jitna behtar ho utna acha hai. (it is the right of neighbours to get along and have a good relationship).”