No Bilateral Cricket With India Until They Free People Of Occupied Kashmir: Pakistan Minister

Any hopes of seeing India and Pakistan resume their bilateral ties in cricket looks like a distant dream now. Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, Special Assistant to Pakistan Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting, has said that Pakistan won’t play against India until the latter frees the people of Kashmir.

Last year, India abrogated Article 370 which had given special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It was a temporary provision and India had all the rights to abrogate it. As a result of the decision, the state was divided into two union territories. However, Pakistan have been crying foul over India’s decision and have tried to tarnish their neighbour’s image by spreading fake propaganda over social media.

And Pakistan still have not changed their stance although the entire world has accepted that the matter is India’s internal issue. In the latest turn of events, Pakistan have decided to bring cricket in the matter although India have already suspended their bilateral ties with them due to cross border terrorism.

“India has created many barriers in our path and promoted false propaganda on all forums to stop international cricket in Pakistan,” Firdous Awan was quoted as saying by The Tribune. “Until India frees the people of occupied Kashmir, any matches between the countries will rub salt into the wounds of Kashmiris.”

The arch-rivals have not played a full bilateral Test series since 2007 when Pakistan visited India for three Tests and five ODIs. They played a short series of three ODIs and two T20s in India in December 2012, but otherwise, both have faced each other only in the ICC organised events or the Asia Cup.

Firdous Awan further praised Bangladesh for touring Pakistan and help the country in reviving international in their backyard. After playing their home games in UAE for nearly a decade, Pakistan are trying desperately for international cricket to return in full flow on their soil.

“They honoured their commitment, and by sending their team, have supported us in reviving international cricket in the country. Together we have demonstrated to the world that we are a peaceful country,” she said.

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