KARACHI: Former captain Shahid Afridi has asserted that Pakistani cricketers were missing an ‘excellent’ opportunity to partake in the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to political tensions with India.
In an exclusive interview with an international news channel, the renowned all-rounder said that the money-spinning league would give Pakistani cricketers the chance to play in front of an Indian crowd and share the dressing room with other Indian stars.
“I know that IPL is a huge brand and it is an excellent opportunity for Babar Azam or other players to go there to India and play under pressure and share dressing rooms,” Afridi said, adding, “So, in my opinion, Pakistani players are missing a big opportunity.”
Referring to his playing days in the rival country, Afridi said that he was met with a positive response from India and continue to receive support from social media despite issues.
“No doubt, the way I have enjoyed cricket in India; I have always appreciated the love and respect that I have gotten from the people of India. Even now I receive appreciation on social media,” he said.
However, with crippling political tension, the former cricketer believes that there is close to no chance to rekindle cricketing ties as of yet. The all-rounder said that bilateral series between India and Pakistan won’t be possible until the Narendra Modi government is in power.
“The government of Pakistan is always ready but with the present regime in India there are no such chances of resuming cricket relations, of Pakistan-India series,” he concluded.
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