Sport | Cricket
India should have played Pakistan
The India - Pakistan cricket series should have been held next month, at all costs. The decision to cancel the series can seriously affect the game in Asia.
- By K. R. Nayar, Senior Reporter
- Published: 23:03 December 19, 2008
The India - Pakistan cricket series should have been held next month, at all costs. The decision to cancel the series can seriously affect the game in Asia.
One of the primary reasons voiced for the cancellation of the series was the recent terror attacks in Mumbai. But one needs to analyse if this incident should be allowed to destroy cricketing ties between the countries forever.
The very purpose of the terrorists is to create instability and destroy the little joys people gain, watching any sport. The question is: Should they be allowed to have their way£ If India and Pakistan cancel all relationships, sporting as well as cultural, then it will be a victory for the terrorists.
An India–Pakistan series not only produces exciting cricket, but also promotes a feeling of warmth between the people of the two countries, which in turn can lead to peace in the region. The more cricket is played between these two nations, the less will be the feeling of animosity between the two neighbours.
Proof of this was seen during the last two series between the two countries that I reported on. The warmth that Pakistan's exude in their reception and their hospitality has to be experienced to be believed.
In all honesty, that warmth and affection among the general public is yet to be seen in any other cricketing nation. That's when one wonders how these two countries could fight wars when the common man has no hatred whatsoever.
It goes without saying that all this animosity has been created by politicians and not by the residents of either countries. Cricket has helped bring the two nations closer.
India's Sports Minister M.S. Gill's statement that India should not play Pakistan seems quite a myopic view. Cutting off all relationships can only escalate the tension between the two countries.
Moreover, an India–Pakistan series can generate huge funds for the game which will, in turn, help train young cricketers. It is the lack of proper sporting facilities that often guides youngsters on the path to crime and terrorism.
Considering the risk factors involved, it is understandable that the series could not held in Pakistan. However, it could have been held at a neutral venue and would have served as a riposte to the evil desires of the terrorists.
Multimedia
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