Cricketers are not getting a chance to become overnight heroes for their countries: Shoaib Akhtar

India and Pakistan are two teams desperate to play each other. However, the diplomatic stand of both the countries is coming in their way. The governments of both the countries are fighting over certain issues and the tension has just been mounting over the years. The same has reflected on their sporting relationship. Former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar feels that the current crop of players are missing out on the rivalry.

India last played a very short bilateral series against Pakistan in 2012 but have not played them in a full series since 2007. There are some reports that suggest of India visiting UAE for a full series in 2019 but those are just rumours. Akhtar was not impressed with the relationship between the two governments.

No one gets to be an overnight star – Shoaib Akhtar

Shoaib Akhtar was shot to fame in the year 1999 during the Asian Test Championship. He sent Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar packing on consecutive deliveries. Akhtar feels the current teams are missing out on the age-old rivalry, “It is terribly sad that cricketers from either side of the border are not often getting to experience the Indo-Pak rivalry. Along with the Ashes, it is the biggest series in the game,” said Shoaib Akhtar.

He feels that Pakistan cricketers are adored in India. Akhtar also said that he is talking from experience and said that he wanted the current Pakistan cricketers to experience the same. He also considers himself lucky to have experienced the Indo-Pak rivalries on many occasions.

“The cricketers are not getting a chance to become overnight heroes for their respective countries. Pakistan cricketers are adored in India. I myself have got so much love from India. I really wanted the current Pakistani crop to experience the same kind of love we received in India back in the day and showcase their talent,” Akhtar told as quoted by News 18.

Shoaib Akhtar felt undone by the fact that everything will be decided on the diplomatic level now. He said that he feels ‘strange’ when politics is mixed with sports. He also added that the boards are not at fault, in fact, they want the series to happen.

“It is a bit strange and sad that it will be decided at the diplomatic level when it is often said the sports should be left aside from politics. “Having said that, it is not anyone’s fault (the BCCI or PCB). Both boards want the series to take place. It is in their interest if the series happens,” Akhtar concluded.