• Source:JND
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JE Sports Desk:  Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has taken a side for the national team to be allowed to participate in the upcoming ODI World Cup in India and added that not sending the side for the mega-event would be "depriving people" of the opportunity to see the arch-rivals clash on the biggest stage.

"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," said Misbah, former Pakistan captain was quoted by PTI as saying.

 

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"It is a great injustice to the fans who follow Pakistan and Indian cricket a lot," added the former Pakistan team coach.

The Pakistan Cricket Board recently made public that their national team's participation in the World Cup later this year will be subject to their government's clearance amid tense relations between the neighboring countries.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) announced that the Asia Cup will take place in a hybrid model with few games to be played in Pakistan, who are the dedicated host for the tournament, and the remaining games will be played in Sri Lanka from August 31 to September 17.

The decision was taken after India refused to play their matches in Pakistan and asked for the tournament to be staged in a neutral venue due to political tensions.

However, the Pakistan government took a sensational step to form a high-profile committee to decide on their possible travel to India for World Cup.

On the other hand, PCB acting chairman Zaka Ashraf is also pushing for Pakistan's World Cup matches against India to be played at neutral venues.

Misbah felt that both teams should travel to both countries to play cricket matches.

 

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"Certainly Pakistan should be playing in the World Cup even in India," he added. "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." Misbah also advised the players to just focus on their World Cup campaign.