Pakistan’s former right-arm fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has proposed an India-Pakistan ODI series in order to raise funds for the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic which will be played in both countries.

“In this time of crisis, I want to propose a three-match series in which for the first time, the people of neither country would be upset at the outcome of the games,” Akhtar told PTI in Islamabad.

The 44-year-old who has praised this Indian side and its skipper, Virat Kohli, in a number of his videos was all praises for the Delhi-based batsman while talking to media as well.

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“If Virat (Kohli) scores a hundred, we will be happy, if Babar Azam scores a hundred, you will be happy. Both teams will be winners irrespective of whatever happens on the field,” he said.

“You are bound to get massive viewership for the games. For the first time, both countries will play for each other. And whatever funds are generated through this can be donated equally to the government of India and Pakistan to fight this pandemic,” Akhtar pointed out.

India has not played a bilateral series with their archrivals since 2012-13 due to the terrorist attacks on India by Pakistan-based terror outfits. They only play each other in ICC events and Asia Cup. But Shoaib believes that this charity series could ease the diplomatic tension.

“Everyone is sitting at home at the moment, so there will be a massive following for the games. Maybe not now when things start improving, the games could be organized at a neutral location like Dubai. Chartered flights could be arranged and the matches could be held.”

“It could even lead to a resumption of bilateral cricketing ties and relations of both countries improve diplomatically. You never know,” the former pacer said.

(With PTI inputs)