Shoaib Akhtar proposes India-Pakistan ODI series in Dubai to raise funds amid Coronavirus pandemic

Amid the stern situation of coronavirus pandemic spreading its wrath around the globe, the world has come to a standstill with no cricketing action. The spread of the novel coronavirus has taken a toll on human existence and individuals have been forced to stay in isolation to battle the pandemic.

The sports industry has also been hampered with major tournament and matches getting called off in the wake of the pandemic. Both India and Pakistan have been grappling against the outbreak of COVID-19 and cricketers from both neighbouring nations have stepped forward to donate to aid in the battle against the pandemic.

Meanwhile, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has proposed a three-match ODI series between the arch-rivals to raise funds amid the pandemic. India and Pakistan haven’t played a full-series since 2007 due to the diplomatic tensions between both the neighbours. India and Pakistan have encountered each other only in ICC events and Asia events since 2007.

“In this time of crisis, I want to propose a three-match series in which for the first time, the people of neither country would be upset at the outcome of the games,” said Akhtar as quoted by IndiaToday.

Akhtar also added that both the teams will emerge as winners irrespective of the result as the matches will be played for a noble cause. “If Virat (Kohli) scores a hundred, we will be happy, if Babar Azam scores a hundred, you will be happy. Both teams will be winners irrespective of whatever happens on the field,” he said.

‘You are bound to get massive viewership for the games’: Shoaib Akhtar

As both countries are currently under lockdown, Akhtar feels that the games can be organized when things start improving in India and Pakistan. He suggested that the games can be held at a neutral location– Dubai. He further suggested that chartered flights could be arranged for the players.

“Everyone is sitting at home at the moment, so there will be a massive following for the games. Maybe not now, when things start improving, the games could be organised at a neutral location like Dubai. Chartered flights could be arranged and the matches could be held,” suggested Akhtar.

“You are bound to get massive viewership for the games. For the first time, both countries will play for each other. And whatever funds are generated through this can be donated equally to the government of India and Pakistan to fight this pandemic,” added the former Paksitan speedster.