Former Pakistan leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed wants his countrymen to soon resume bilateral cricketing ties with neighbours India. 

Due to the political tension across the border, the two nations haven't played any bilateral ODI or T20I series since 2012, with their last Test match outing in 2007. The on-field rivalry, still a cause of fanfare nationalism, has long been limited to just the major ICC events and the Asia Cup. 

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"I think cricketing ties should resume between India and Pakistan," Mushtaq told IANS. "I feel cricket has the ability to bind the two nations and improve their relationship. Cricket brings love, it brings joy and happiness to the fans."

"Thus, it is important for both the countries to play cricket against each other because fans want to watch them play."

"Whenever India and Pakistan meet, the cricket is highly competitive. In fact, the India-Pakistan series is bigger than the Ashes."

Among the many cultural traditions and values we share, cricket, Mushtaq believes, can work as a tool to bring people closer to each other. The recent opening of the Kartarpur Corridor may also help bridge the gap. "When we will play cricket, things will become easier," the 49-year old said. "It provides politicians with a great opportunity to communicate and set things on the right track. And that's why I think communication needs to be there between the two governments."

"Both the countries should sit and discuss the situation and their problems. The recent opening of the Kartarpur Corridor is a great initiative for both the nations."

"All issues can be solved when communication takes place. And sports, particularly cricket, can play a very big role in improving the bilateral ties between India and Pakistan," he added. 

(Inputs from IANS)