We would be happy to play a role in the revival of Pakistan-India bilateral series: CA chief Nick Hockley

Cricket Australia head Nick Hockley proposed the idea of a tri-series involving India and Pakistan to attract a large section of the cricketing fans. India have a strong political stance and haven’t played a bilateral series against Pakistan for over a decade but Hockley hopes to change that by involving Australia and making it a tri-series.

The 47-year-old stated that he would be happy to play a role in the revival of the Pakistan-India bilateral series but added that a tri-series will only be possible with proper coordination from the other two cricketing boards - BCCI and PCB. Notably, the officials from both boards have had significant differences in recent times as India refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup in 2023. Pakistan threatened to boycott the ODI World Cup in India but later, decided to play in the tournament.

Hockley is ready to provide everything necessary to host both teams in Australia but is not sure if both boards would like the idea and coordinate accordingly.

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“We are ready to support both teams for a bilateral and a tri-series. We would be happy to play a role in the revival of Pakistan-India bilateral series,” read a statement from Cricket Australia.

“The two boards need to decide first, and we will assist in hosting,” he added by saying that the formal discussions are yet to take place as all three boards were busy with the recently concluded T20 World Cup.

Hockley hope for positive changes in Afghanistan women’s team

Australia stopped playing bilateral series against Afghanistan due to political tensions in the country. Afghanistan government stopped promoting women’s cricket in the country, which is why, Cricket Australia stopped playing bilateral series against them. Hockley stated that discussions have taken place in recent times and they are encouraging the Afghan officials to promote women’s cricket.

“We absolutely want to see cricket grow and thrive all around the world for women and men. The ongoing dialogue with the Afghanistan Cricket Board aims to encourage the development of women's cricket in Afghanistan, despite current political and social challenges,” Hockley said.