'From 1997-98, they didn't play much against us because we were too good' - Former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq makes explosive 'bilateral series' allegation on Team India

India and Pakistan will square after nearly a year when they compete in the Cricket World Cup 2023 in India, which begins in October. The match between the arch-rivals is set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the world's largest cricket stadium. Notably, this would be Pakistan's first visit to India since 2016, when they visited the country for the ICC T20 World Cup.

Ahead of the showpiece event, former Pakistan all-rounder Abdul Razzaq made a shocking remark about the Indian team. While arguing for the resumption of bilateral series between the arch-rivals, Razzaq stated that India hadn't played Pakistan much in 1997-98, claiming they were too formidable. He added that a lot has changed so far and the performance of the team is what matters the most.

“We share mutual respect and friendship. There's only Indian team that doesn't play against Pakistan. From 1997-98, they didn't play much against us because we were too good, India always used to lose. Now, situation has changed, we are in 2023, but we have to change our thinking. No team is big or small, the performance on the day matters,” Razzaq told EHCricket.

Razzaq encourages bilateral series resumption between India and Pakistan citing Ashes 2023 example

The 43-year-old went on to say that both India and Pakistan are good, citing England and Australia as examples, who are now competing in the Ashes 2023. He also stated that he would love to see India and Pakistan play a series against each other in the future.

“Both teams are good. You can't say Pakistan team is weak. You see the Ashes series, can you point out which team is better? The team which performs wins, as simple as that. We have to get out of this and play matches, series against each other,” he added.

In addition, India and Pakistan will clash in the Asia Cup 2023 before the ODI World Cup in 2023. The Rohit Sharma-led side is currently in the West Indies for a bilateral series that comprises two Tests, three ODIs, and five T20Is. Meanwhile, Babar Azam and Co. are in Sri Lanka for a two-match Test series, their first assignment in the new ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle.