Agence France Presse
Sharjah, Nov 1: Former batting great Sunil Gavaskar believes New Delhi and Islamabad must start a dialogue to pave the way for the revival of regular matches between India and Pakistan.
Mired by the present political situation of the two nations, Pakistan Cricket Board is in a long wait of a response from its counterparts – Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) – for a proposed series in United Arab Emirates in December-January. The series is one of six agreed between the PCB and BCCI under an MoU signed last year, all subject to clearance from the respective governments.
BCCI too is waiting the government’s reply over the matter, which is likely to come in the next ten days. If materialised, it would be the first between the two countries since 2007. India called off most sporting fixtures between the rivals after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, though they did play limited overs series in 2012.
Gavaskar, popular across the borders for his superlative batting, said the mistrust between the two countries should be removed. “I think to solve any problem people need to talk,” Gavaskar said. “I don’t think any sport has that power to impact any government decision. However, when two countries meet, it brings in supporters from the respective nations where understanding develops that sends signals to governments. However, as a former player I think talks may solve the present crisis.”
