IND vs PAK: Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq slams PCB over World Cup stance

Former Pakistan captain, Misbah-ul-Haq, has voiced his support for the Pakistan cricket team to travel to India for the ODI World Cup. Misbah emphasized that denying Pakistan's participation in the mega-event would deprive fans of the opportunity to witness the highly-anticipated clash between the arch-rivals on the grandest stage.

During a recent event, Misbah, a respected figure in the cricketing world, expressed his views, stating, "When there can be contact between the two countries in other sports, why not in cricket? Why link cricket with political relations? It is unfair to deprive people of a chance to see their teams play against each other.”

He further highlighted the injustice faced by passionate fans of both Pakistan and Indian cricket, who eagerly await these exhilarating encounters.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently conveyed to the International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that the national team's participation in the upcoming World Cup is subject to government clearance due to the tense relations between the two countries.

Geopolitical tensions have led to India's refusal to play its Asia Cup matches in Pakistan. After months of speculation, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced that the tournament will be held in a hybrid model, with four games taking place in Pakistan and nine in Sri Lanka as a neutral venue from August 31 to September 17.

In light of these circumstances, PCB acting chairman Zaka Ashraf is pushing for Pakistan's World Cup matches against India to be played at neutral venues.

Misbah strongly believes that it is time for Pakistan to visit India, and reciprocally, the Indian team should also visit Pakistan for cricket matches.

He stated, "Certainly Pakistan should be playing in the World Cup even in India. The many times I have played in India, we have enjoyed the pressure and crowds there. Because it gives you motivation and conditions in India suit us. Our team has the capability to do well in Indian conditions."

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