Urging the boards and the governments from the two neighbouring countires to come forward and resume India-Pakistan cricket ties, former Pakistan captain and batsman
Younis Khan
said playing only in ICC tournaments creates more pressure on players.
The two archrivals are set to face off in their group fixture of the ICC
T20 World Cup
on June 9 in New York.
ALSO SEE: T20 World Cup Schedule
Speaking to reporters in Pakistan, Younis said not having India-Pakistan matches often not only creates more pressure on the teams but also takes away the opporunity of producing more stars.
"We (Pakistan players) have always said that India-Pakistan series must happen, I am not talking about just one or two matches. When it happens in a World Cup, whichever team that loses is under double pressure. So if we play again and again, this pressure will release a bit," said Younis, who played 118 Tests, 265 ODIs and 25 T20Is for Pakistan.
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"When India-Pakistan matches and series happen often, it gives rise to (star) players. We can talk about the past, present and in future, whenever there are performances in India-Pakistan matches, it creates stars. So I think for the sake of sports, the governments of both the countries should unite. Players (from both India and Pakistan) are fine (with it), as we see a lot of nice gestures from both the teams, players share their thoughts, there is a good atmosphere," added Younis.
"So I believe the governments and the boards should step forward to organise this series."
Pakistan are the official hosts for the returning ICC Champions Trophy in 2025 and a draft schedule by the
Pakistan Cricket Board
reportedly has all India matches scheduled in Lahore. However, the
BCCI
remains reluctant to travel to Pakistan and will need to consult the government before taking any decision.
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