India and Pakistan have not played a full-fledged bilateral series since 2007.
At a time when the political ties between India and Pakistan are probably going through its worst phase, former speedster Shoaib Akhtar often does his bit to ease up the tension.
WATCH: “India's future is in the right hands”, says Shoaib Akhtar
Akhtar, who is known to speak his mind, has already commented on sensitive issues like Kashmir and he recently expressed his views on the bilateral cricketing ties between the two South Asian neighbours.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel, the Rawalpindi Express minced no words in criticizing all stakeholders for the long gap between an India-Pakistan bilateral series.
India and Pakistan have not played a full-fledged bilateral series since 2007, but the arch-rivals do face each other regularly in ICC events and Asia Cup.
“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.
“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, India and Pakistan can play a bilateral series soon and it’s important for both countries to have a tough competition between them,” he added.
Shoaib also suggested neutral venues for an India versus 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 said.
The 44-year-old also went on to say that if both the countries cannot play cricket then all other ties should be cut off as well.
“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 remarked.
Commenting on the significance of Indo-Pak bilateral series, Akhtar said it is better for cricket and also for business.
“It’s very important for India and Pakistan 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 India-Pakistan bilateral series possible,” he concluded.
Here's the video: