Former Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf has made startling revelations, saying that they sent wives of the cricketers during their last tour of India to avoid any controversies and mishaps. Incidentally, both cricketing nations haven’t played a bilateral series since 2012-13 amid the political tensions.
India and Pakistan locked horns in a three-match One Day Internationals (ODI) followed by two Twenty20 Internationals. The visiting side won the 50-over leg by a 2-1 margin while the honours were shared in the T20Is.
Throwing light on that tour, Zaka Ashraf revealed they had to send wives of the cricketers to avoid any controversies. The former PCB chief also took a dig at Indian media, saying that they are always on the look for controversies.
Speaking to Cricket Pakistan, Zaka said, “During my time when our team went on a tour to India, I advised that all the wives of the players will accompany them. This decision was taken so that no controversy could be created as Indian media is always on the lookout for that,” he added. “The wives meant to also keep a check on the players.”
Since then, both India and Pakistan have only played against each other in multi-nation tournaments. The last time they played each other was during the ICC T20 World Cup last year in the UAE. Babar Azam and Co. thrashed the men in blues by 10 wickets.
“We should always try to restore ties” – Zaka Ashraf
The 69-year-old former administrator further stated that both nations should take initiatives to revive the bilateral series. Zaka Ashraf further revealed that during his time, the BCCI had promised to visit Pakistan and play a bilateral series.
“We should always try to restore ties with the Indian government in regards to cricket. The biggest advantage we have right now is that General Bajwa is currently occupying the position and he himself wants to see Pakistan cricket prosper,” Ashraf said.
“They invited us for a short series and once we went there, I met with BCCI chairman at the time Narayanaswami Srinivasan. He promised India’s participation on Pakistan soil granted if foolproof security is given,” he concluded.
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