New Delhi: The current state of relations between India and Pakistan is extremely tense. The situation has worsened after the Pahalgam terrorist attack. This impact was clearly visible in the world of cricket as well, two matches of the World Championship of Legends between the two countries were canceled, and although three matches were played during the Asia Cup, the distance between the players was evident. The no-handshake controversy and the incident of ACC chief Mohsin Naqvi leaving the field with the Asia Cup trophy only added fuel to the fire.

Wasim Akram’s Appeal — “Keep Cricket Away from Politics”
Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram, expressing his views on the entire controversy, appealed to the ICC to take strict action. He said that it is important to keep the sport separate from politics, as it is the sport that acts as a bridge between countries.
Akram said, “I don’t like politics in cricket. The game should be kept away from politics. Players from every country should get a chance to play in league cricket.”

“Players from Every Country Should Play in T20 Leagues”
Akram further added that equal opportunities are essential in cricket. He clearly stated that the ICC should ensure that players from every country can participate in any T20 league — be it the IPL or the Pakistan Super League.
He said, “It doesn’t matter who runs the league or who owns the team — every player should get a chance. That is the true spirit of the game.”

When Pakistani Players Played in the IPL
In the first season of the IPL in 2008, Pakistani players also participated. Shoaib Akhtar played for Kolkata Knight Riders, while Kamran Akmal played for Rajasthan Royals. Sohail Tanvir even became the highest wicket-taker in that season.
But after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the BCCI banned Pakistani players, and since then, no Pakistani player has been able to play in the IPL.

India-Pakistan Cricket Relations Have Become Limited
Terrorist incidents and political tensions have deeply affected India-Pakistan cricket relations. The last Test series between the two countries was held in 2007, while the last ODI series was played in 2012-13.
Now, the two teams only face each other in ICC or ACC tournaments.

Story Highlights:

1. India-Pakistan relations at an all-time low, cricket also affected.
2. Wasim Akram’s appeal to the ICC – “Keep cricket away from politics.”
3. Pakistani players banned from the IPL since 2008.
4. Now, India-Pakistan matches are limited to international tournaments only.