Indian government not BCCI stopping series against Pakistan: Afridi

KARACHI: All-rounder Shahid Afridi spoke about the prevailing uncertainty over bilateral cricket ties between Pakistan and India, placing blame on New Delhi for halting cricket between the two nations.

“I don’t think that BCCI has any problems with series against Pakistan. It is their [India’s] government which is stopping cricket,” Afridi said while showcasing the ICC Champions Trophy at the Edhi Home on Thursday.

Read: Indian government reacts to Pak-India series 

Shahid Afridi termed Pakistan’s match against India in this year’s Champions Trophy as the most sought after game and said that the clash between the South Asian rivals will be a battle of nerves.

“It is all about handling pressure,” said the former captain about Pakistan vs India game.

“The team which handles the pressure well wins the game. We shouldn’t get panicky in such a high-voltage game if we want to win it,” he advised.

Shahid Afridi pictured with ICC Champions Trophy

The former captain added that he is looking forward to the Pakistan vs India match in the ICC Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to be played on 4th June at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

“I will be going to England to watch the Pakistan vs India match,” he announced.

He said that there will be no room for complacency in the Champions Trophy and teams will have to give their 100%.

“It’s a short tournament, top teams. There is no chance for any mistake, you do one mistake and you’re out so there is no room for any complacency in the event, you’ll have to give your best,” Afridi said.

Replying to a question, Afridi said that the PSL final in Pakistan conveyed a very clear message to the world that Pakistan is capable of hosting international cricket at home grounds.

“It may take time, but cricket will have to return. PSL final was a good thing and it sent a very clear message to the cricketing world,” said the former captain.