Imran Khan calls for resumption of India-Pakistan cricket series

Former Pakistan captain and cricketing legend Imran Khan would like to see India and Pakistan resume bilateral cricket ties. He has been impressed with the welcome and love given to the Pakistan team by Indian fans during the ICC T20 World Cup 2016.

The former all-rounder, who led Pakistan to the ICC World Cup title in 1992, said despite Pakistan's loss to India, he felt it was time the arch-rivals started playing against each other regularly.

"I was happy to see the hospitality extended to our team in Kolkata and I think it is time the two countries resumed regular bilateral matches", he said, as quoted by Hindustan Times.

"I think if the two boards and governments can agree to resumption of bilateral ties it will prove beneficial for both countries and the players. It will also bring financial benefits for both boards."

"If bilateral cricket can resume it will mean money for the board and this can be invested into our domestic and club cricket which needs to be reorganized in the country. We are not short of talent in cricket but we need to inject money into the sport at grassroots level and boost the condition of domestic players and improve our domestic system."

However, the former captain was disappointed Pakistan could not break their duck against India in ICC World Cup tournaments with India cruising to a six-wicket victory at the Eden Gardens on 19 March, Saturday. The win meant that Pakistan have now failed to beat India in 11 attempts at the biggest stage in cricket.

"I had met with the players and I had told Shahid Afridi to try and relax himself and also ask the players to be relaxed and not take any pressure of the occasion."

"My view was clear if the captain is under pressure how can he lift the other players. A India and Pakistan match is always about holding your nerves. It was a one-sided encounter. Even if we had lost after a close match it would be fine for me. But not like this."

Pakistan are in second place in the Group 2 table ahead of Australia and India on net-run rate. They next play New Zealand on 22 March, Tuesday at Mohali.

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