The cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan is one of the most intense sports rivalries in the world thanks to tense relationships at the border and bitter diplomatic relationships off the field.
However, India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since 2013 due to tense relations between the neighboring countries, as the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) are constantly denying playing them, but the fierce foes get a chance to revive the on-field rivalry during the ICC events.
After Pakistan successfully managed to host Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series and Test series, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ehsan Mani has made a controversial statement about the neighboring country, saying "India is a far greater security risk than Pakistan" at the moment.
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Mani was quoted as saying by cricketpakistan.com.pk, “We have proved that Pakistan is safe, if someone isn't coming then they should prove that it's unsafe. At this time, India is a far greater security risk than Pakistan.”
He continued, “No one should now doubt security arrangements in Pakistan after successful Sri Lanka Test series. This is a turning point for the revival of Test cricket in Pakistan. Media and fans played an important role in portraying a positive image of Pakistan worldwide.”
Meanwhile, the board chairman urged Bangladesh who is scheduled to visit Pakistan in January for three T20Is and two Tests and other cricket playing countries to visit the country after a successful hosting of a home Test series against Sri Lanka – first after 10 years.
Mani signed off by saying, “We're in talks with Bangladesh board. Not only Bangladesh, but all the teams should also have no doubt that PCB will host its home series in Pakistan only. I'm hopeful that Bangladesh will tour Pakistan because there's no reason of not touring. If Sri Lanka can tour Pakistan than why not others.”
Noteworthy, Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 263 runs in the second Test to clinch the two-match Test series 1-0 in Karachi on Monday, December 23.
(With cricketpakistan.com.pk Inputs)
