'Relationship jitna behtar, utna acha': Shahid Afridi welcomes Rohit Sharma's proposal on India-Pakistan bilateral series resumption

‘Relationship jitna behtar, utna acha’: Shahid Afridi welcomes Rohit Sharma’s proposal on India-Pakistan bilateral series resumption

NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi has responded to recent remarks made by Rohit Sharma, regarding the potential revival of bilateral Test series between the two countries, by welcoming the comments made by the Indian captain.

Rohit had suggested that the resumption of Indo-Pak rivalry would greatly benefit Test cricket. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan have not engaged in a bilateral series for more than ten years, primarily due to political tensions between the two nations.

“I totally believe that they are a good team, superb bowling line-up, good contest, if we play overseas. The last Test was played way back in 2007-08. Yeah, I would love to (play against Pakistan), it would be a great contest between two sides. We play them in ICC trophies, pure cricket I am looking at, great contest, so why not?” Rohit had said, during a discussion on the Club Prairie Fire podcast, when asked, “Don’t you think India playing Pakistan regularly will be fantastic for Test cricket?”.

Afridi commended Rohit for his exemplary representation of India. He emphasised the crucial role that sports play in promoting improved ties between India and Pakistan. Afridi reflected on previous cricket tours involving the two countries, implying that such occasions contributed to the development of more robust connections.

“Bilkul bahut acha jawab hai, hona bhi yahi chahiye (very good answer, the series should happen). A positive statement from an Indian captain. He is also an ambassador of India. We have always said that the relationship between Pakistan and India…..sports -especially cricket – has played an important role in it. We used to go to India and play cricket there. These things build relationship….padosi hai padosiyo ka haq hota relationship jitna behtar ho utna acha hai (it’s neighbours right to have a good relationship),” Afridi said on Samaa TV.

India and Pakistan’s most recent encounter took place during the ODI World Cup last year in India, where the hosts secured victory by seven wickets.

The anticipation for their next clash is building as both teams are set to meet again during the upcoming T20 World Cup. Scheduled for June 9 in New York, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter between the arch-rivals.

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