(AP Photo)
It has been over a decade since India and Pakistan last engaged in a bilateral cricket series. During the 2000s, their intense rivalry delighted fans as both teams traveled for multi-format series in each other’s countries. However, escalating geopolitical tensions have prevented them from hosting each other since then, restricting their contests to ICC tournaments.
Despite numerous attempts by other cricketing nations to facilitate matches between the arch-rivals, none have succeeded. Even Cricket Australia (CA) has expressed willingness to provide venues, contingent upon the BCCI and PCB reaching a mutual agreement—a prospect that remains distant.
Nick Hockley, CEO of Cricket Australia, acknowledges that the decision to revive bilateral series rests solely with the respective cricket boards. CA stands ready to assist in any capacity, but understands that this is ultimately a matter for the BCCI and PCB to resolve.
“Alongside the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, this [IND vs PAK] is the rivalry in world cricket that everyone wants to see. In terms of a bilateral series between the two countries, that’s a matter for their respective boards. However, we are open to facilitating or helping in any way,” Hockley said in an online press conference.
Indian cricket enthusiasts are expressing immense excitement for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where Team India is scheduled to tour Australia later this year. Nick Hockley from Cricket Australia (CA) remarked on the overwhelming response from Indian fans, particularly noting the enthusiastic reception to the ticket sales for the series.
“For next summer, it’s a very full schedule. We’ve announced the fixtures and tickets are on sale. We are amazed by the level of interest, particularly from fans in India. The number of tickets bought by Indian fans is six times higher than the highest previous Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. We expect incredible support for that series,” Hockley said.
Speaking again about the possibilities of an India vs Pakistan bilateral series in Australia, Hockley said, “Regarding a bilateral series between India and Pakistan, it’s up to their respective boards, and we haven’t raised it with them formally. We’re open to supporting it in any way we can.”
