India scared of playing us in bilateral series: Shaharyar Khan

Pakistan Cricket Board’s chief Shaharyar Khan has criticised India of not participating with rivals Pakistan in a bilateral series. The last time both teams collided in a bilateral series was in 2012/13 when Pakistan toured India for an ODI and T20 series. Since then, both teams have been playing each other in ICC tournaments in both ODI and T20 formats.

‘After CT win, India scared of us’

The never-ending political turmoil between both neighbours has denied BCCI a clearance from the Indian government to take part in a series against Pakistan. Both teams recently were pitted against one another in the ICC Champions Trophy. While India won the group game but Pakistan played their best game in the finals of the mega event to hand a shocking 180-run defeat to Kohli’s men. Shaharyar Khan issued a challenge to India after the gigantic win.

“After our win, we challenge India to come and play bilateral cricket with us. They don’t play us, they are scared of our team. They say we’ll play you in ICC matches but they won’t play us otherwise” said Shaharyar at the PM’s reception of the victorious squad as reported by Pakpassion.com

He emphasised on continuing the process of getting better and better after their maiden title win. He also stated that Pakistan’s side has set an example for other teams to follow.

“We need to build on this victory. It’s not enough, we need to go a lot further. All cricket teams in Pakistan should take an example from this team. Be united with jazba, give importance to fielding and fitness and include youth in all teams – FC, division, university teams,” said the 83-year old.

International cricket in Pakistan soon

He might be retiring from the post next month but Shaharyar is keen on bringing back international cricket in Pakistan which has been stalled since 2009. The PCB head said that after the remarkable CT win, teams want to play them and the Board is already in talks with a few teams for a short tour of Pakistan.

“After this win, every team will want to play us. They should now come to Pakistan, there is complete security. God-willing, teams will start coming. We are in negotiations with Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and West Indies. They can send their teams first for a short tour, maybe for just T20Is,” hinted Shaharyar.

Shaharyar was pleased with the way the Men in Green went about their business in the big tournament despite losing the first game to India. He said that the team has brought joy to the entire country.

“Our team’s victory has brought happiness to people around the country. This is important because all people of the country are united. They don’t care where who is from, everyone is united and that has brought us victory.”

Sarfaraz to lead in Tests

It was recently announced by the PCB that Sarfaraz, who led Pakistan to victory in England and leads in the T20s as well, will be the successor to Misbah Ul Haq. Shaharyar mentioned that he spoke to both Inzamam Ul Haq, who is the chief selector, and Sarfaraz himself, who had no hesitation in taking the new role.

“I took advice from Inzi and everyone about Sarfraz as Test captain, I felt he is the best candidate. But first I wanted his acceptance. Today I met him in the elevator and asked him if he is willing to be Test captain, he said ‘as you wish, I am ready to help’. So, Sarfaraz becomes captain of the Test team,” pointed Shaharyar.