Karachi: Pakistani cricketers welcomed the decision of three ODI matches and two T20 matches series against arch-rival later this December in India.
Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi stretches during a practice session ahead of their third One Day International cricket match against Sri Lanka in Colombo June 12, 2012. REUTERS/Dinuka Liyanawatte
“The matches between Pakistan and India are being followed by masses and people are greatly interested in the matches between the two teams throughout the world,” he added.
“The pressure is great when we play against India but it also adds to the thrill in the match,” Afridi said.
After a lapse of nearly five, India and Pakistan will resume bilateral ties series, comprising of three ODIs and two T20 internationals. This will be the first bilateral series between the arch-rivals since Pakistan toured India in 2007.
“People love to watch Pakistan and India on the cricket field on both sides of the border and also throughout the world,” Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq said.
“It will be a great a spectacle for the cricket fans when the two sides will face each other in the cricket field,” Misbah added.
Meanwhile, T20 skipper Mohammad Hafeez said that people gives respect when the Pakistani team tour India and Pakistanis do the same when the Indian team comes to Pakistan.
“Although our focus is on T20 World Championship to be played in Sri Lanka before the series, but we are also looking forward to play India at their home-ground as well,” he added.
Pacer Sohail Tanveer said that cricket plays a great role in pacifying the relation between India and Pakistan. “Cricket should continue to prosper between the two countries because it brings the nations closer.”
Former legend Zaheer Abbas said that the news is great, not only for Pakistan and India but also for the world of cricket.
“Cricket fans love to watch cricket matches between Pakistan and India so they should get chance to see what they love,” the prolific former batsman said.
