There is nothing wrong in playing cricket with Pakistan, said former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Syed Kirmani on Tuesday. India and Pakistan were supposed to play a bilateral series this month but the planned rubber did not go ahead after the Indian government withheld permission for it.
"According to me, there is nothing wrong in playing against Pakistan, but looking into the political scenario, the ICC and BCCI wouldn't like to go against the government as well. They are autonomous bodies but we have got to respect what the government says," he said.
BCCI is awaiting the Indian government's permission for playing against the arch-rivals. The BCCI and the PCB had signed an MoU last year under which the two countries agreed to play a total of six bilateral series between 2015 and 2023, Cricket Country reported. Nevertheless, Kirmani said he is looking forward the political relationship to be to improved between India and Pakistan. "I am looking forward, that the relationships at the political front eases off between the two neighbours," he added.
If the series comes through, Kirmani said it would be sold-out affair because India-Pakistan clashes are always enjoyed by the fans. "We always enjoy playing against Pakistan, and if the series comes through, nothing like it. It builds more interest in spectators and lovers of the game," said Kirmani. "Leaving aside politics, there is a great camaraderie among the players. We enquire about our families and business and other things. We also wish each other, that is how sportsmen are - there is nothing between players. We have a great relationship," he said.
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