Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar batted for the resumption of Pakistan-India cricketing ties.

Shoaib Akhtar minced no words in criticizing all stakeholders for the long gap between an India and Pakistan bilateral series. “We can play Davis Cup, we can play Kabaddi with each other then what’s wrong with cricket? I understand India can’t come to Pakistan, Pakistan can’t go to India but we play Asia Cup, Champions Trophy on neutral venues, can’t we do the same for bilateral series?” Akhtar asked on his youtube channel.

“We are one of the best hospitable nations in the world and India have seen it first hands. Ask the likes of Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar we love them like anything. Cricket should not get affected by the differences between us. Hopefully, Pakistan and India can play a bilateral series soon and it’s important for both the countries to have a tough competition between them,” he added.

Akhtar also suggested neutral venues for an India vs Pakistan bilateral series. “Pakistan is a very safe place to travel. India’s Kabaddi team came, they got a lot of love, Bangladesh came to play Test cricket. But if there are still doubts then I suggest neutral venues,” he added.

The Rawalpindi Express also went on to say that all ties should be cut off if Pakistan and India cannot play cricket. “If you want to cut the ties then stop the trade, stop playing Kabaddi. Why only cricket? Whenever it’s cricket we make it political, it is very disappointing. We eat onions and tomatoes, we exchange pleasantries then why can’t we play cricket?” He added.

“It’s very important for Pakistan and India to play because it earns revenue, it brings the fans, it inspires and it also keeps the healthy rivalry going. We get to see new players who can handle this pressure. I urge everyone to come forward and make Pak-India bilateral series possible,” he said.