I didn't make any statement on Indian team playing against Pakistan in World Cup 2019, claims Shoaib Akhtar

Reaction and counter-reaction from both sides of Wagah have multiplied in a week that has passed by since a dastardly attack took place on a convoy on CRPF jawans in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pulwama, killing over 44 personnel. Besides the political leadership of both countries who have hit out at each other, cricketers too have spoken out on the matter with some even arguing in favour of India boycotting their clash with Pakistan in the ICC World Cup in England this summer.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has also found himself in the middle of the snowballing controversy and he took to Twitter on Thursday to clear the air on his behalf. Taking a dig at the Indian media, the ‘Rawalpindi Express’ accused it of putting words in his mouth. He also condemned the killings of the security personnel and wanted both countries to come to the table to resolve the issue.

The 43-year-old Akhtar condemned the deaths of the CRPF jawans and also reportedly said that India had all the right to pull out of the game against Pakistan in the showpiece event scheduled on June 16 at Old Trafford. He also accused former Indian cricketers of antagonising the situation and said they should instead serve as bridges.

I completely deny the false news by Indian media about my statement on Indian cricket team / World Cup 2019. I did not make any statement at all and Indian media is making it up. I condemn the loss of lives. Both countries should come to the table to resolve the issues.

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) February 21, 2019

Backing the speech by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, Akhtar was quoted as saying by an Indian news channel, “They have a right to pull out. Their country was attacked and hence the decision. You cannot argue on that?”

BCCI wants India-Pakistan series

Shoaib Akhtar, who played three World Cups (1999, 2003 and 2011) was also at his explosive best claiming that the BCCI wants India to play bilateral series with Pakistan but can’t do it because the Government of India objects to it.

The Committee of Administrators that runs the BCCI is set to meet on Friday to discuss the subject of India playing Pakistan in the World Cup. It will also seek advice from various ministries of the government if the need arises.

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