India-Pakistan Bilateral Series: Kamran Akmal Questions BCCI’s Reluctance
The absence of bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan has left fans yearning for the return of those thrilling encounters. The last such instance was in 2012-13, with the two teams only facing each other in multi-nation tournaments since then.
Recently, Cricket Australia expressed interest in hosting an India-Pakistan series in Australia, but it didn’t garner much interest from the two boards. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, India secured a narrow victory over Pakistan in the group stage, eventually winning the trophy.
Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman Kamran Akmal has questioned the BCCI’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan, highlighting that teams like Australia have done so. He emphasized the love and support Indian cricketers have received in Pakistan, and the mutual desire for a bilateral series.
Akmal, who toured India several times, believes that political matters should be kept aside to allow cricket to flourish. He pointed out that Pakistan has worked hard to bring cricket back to the country, and that both governments should facilitate the resumption of bilateral series.
The upcoming Champions Trophy in Pakistan is also in doubt due to political tensions. Akmal urged both governments to prioritize cricket over politics, allowing the tournament to take place in Pakistan.
Regarding Pakistani players in the IPL, Akmal acknowledged the BCCI’s rules but expressed that the debate would end if bilateral series resumed. He emphasized that Pakistan has its own PSL and is not dependent on the IPL.