A war-like situation between India and Pakistan has put their ICC World Cup 2019 clash in doubt. There is uncertainty on whether BCCI will allow the Indian team to face Pakistan on June 16 in Manchester.
After the Pulwama attack on CRPF personnel by Pakistan based terror group JeM, the whole country demanded BCCI boycott Pakitan in the World Cup.
Former Australia cricketer Matthew Hayden has different thoughts though. He doesn't want cricket to be affected by what happens between the two countries on the border.
Earlier, BCCI had written a letter to ICC asking them to kick out Pakistan from the tournament. ICC responded that it's not possible and they have the right to take part in the contest.
Speaking during the India Today Conclave 2019, the Aussie wants things to calm down between two rival countries.
"Cricket is a beautiful game. It's a game that elevates and levitates above significant issues. So for me, I really pray and hope that cricket prevails. It has lasted depressions, wars, and anarchy.
"I am sure both the governments (India and Pakistan) will have to make important decisions. But from an Australian point of view, I pray there is full membership. It's back to the 1992 format, it's going to be round-robin. It's going to be an exciting format," Hayden said.
Former Aussie captain Michael Clarke also suggested the same. He thinks emotions will be there, but when the cricketers will step out in the field, it is going to be only about cricket for them.
"I think there's no doubt we feel the emotion of every person. Playing in a World cup, or Ashes or tour to India, my preparation was the game. But you feel the emotion of the major tournament. There will be parts of that when India does play Pakistan.
"I agree that cricket is still a game, the players will, as much as they read the media and watch the news. But as soon as they take the field, muscle memory takes over. A batsman will see the ball, a bowler will be focused on bowling the next delivery and the fielder will watch the ball. No matter, how emotional it is you quickly shift focus to what you want to do," Clarke said.
(With India Today Inputs)
