Pakistan would be 70-80 percent absolutely ready to host a series against India: Ramiz Raja

India and Pakistan have not played bilateral cricket since January 2013, which involved 2 T20Is and 3 ODIs. Over the years, the relationship between the neighbours has turned sour and the possibility of a bilateral series between the cricket-obsessed nations looks bleak at the moment.

It’s always a delight to witness an India-Pakistan encounter. Due to the level of competitiveness and rivalry, both the sides have dished out many enthralling matches for their fans. However, fans have been deprived of witnessing one of the greatest rivalries in the sport as India and Pakistan now lock horns only in ICC events and Asia Cup.

Former Pakistan international Ramiz Raja also opined on the possibility of a bilateral series between the arch-rivals. The former Chief Executive of PCB, in an interview with Indranil Basu on Sportskeeda, said that Pakistan would be 70-80 per cent ready to host the Indian cricket team.

Pakistan has a different viewpoint regarding an Indian series: Ramiz Raja

Raja was the Chief Executive of the PCB when the Indian cricket team visited Pakistan for a historic tour in 2004. He also recalled how the Pakistan board was forced to make last-minute arrangements after the Indian government’s go-ahead for the series.

PCB initially had plans to have separate stands for India and Pakistan fans. However, it was later decided that both sets of fans should be allowed to witness the cricketing action together. The gamble worked perfectly as the series emerged as one of the iconic ones.

“I just wish that such an event (Indian cricket team tour of Pakistan 2004) can take place again. Pakistan has a different viewpoint regarding an Indian series. So, if that topic comes up for discussion, I think Pakistan would be 70-80% absolutely ready to host a series against India,” said Raja.

When asked why the PCB would not be 100 per cent ready to host India, Raja said that Pakistan PM Imran Khan could pull it off but the possibility of the series will depend on India’s decision.

“From a cricketing point of view, I am 100% sure that he won’t have a problem. Obviously, he’ll have to look at the political situation as well, how the common people respond if India is invited or if Pakistan is invited with such a series,” he added.