PCB chief hopeful of Pakistan cricketers playing in next year's IPL

Shahid Afridi playing for Deccan Chargers in 2008

New PCB chief Shahryar Khan has said that he hopes that Pakistani players are allowed to play in the Indian Premier League next year. It is worth noting that Pakistanis have not been part of the IPL since Indo-Pak relations deteriorated after the Mumbai 26/11 attacks.

Although the Pakistan cricketers have made a number of requests regarding allowing its players in the cash-rich tournament, the BCCI has not budged. Azhar Mahmood played in the sixth edition of the IPL, but this was an exception because he holds a valid UK passport. Otherwise, no Pakistan players have been allowed to play since 2008.

“Well, we have already agreed on playing each other (India and Pakistan) regularly from next year. We were the last ones to accept the ICC revamp formula and that is how it is. India deserves to have a special status in the current scenario and I hope they look after the interest of Pakistan cricket. All members should have equal rights in the ICC. There has to be a democratic set-up. India's clout in international cricket is justified, but I hope they do all what is required to promote democracy in the system.

“Most in the cricketing world believe India-Pakistan series is even bigger than the Ashes and therefore it should happen frequently. Unfortunately, the security issue remains a problem in Pakistan and as of now, we can only think of hosting them at a neutral venue like UAE,” Khan said

Shahryar, who became the Board President earlier this month for the second time, said he will take up the matter in the IC meeting that scheduled for October.

“I will be talking to the BCCI bosses about all issues concerning Indo-Pak cricket at the next ICC meeting in October. I am planning to visit India soon to carry on the discussion regarding these matters. The Pakistani players unfortunately could not play because of security reasons. I really want to see them play in the IPL next year. There has been no international cricket in Pakistan for a long time now. People only get to watch top quality cricket on television. We thought if we go ahead with the league, it will be difficult to get the fans to the stadium. We need more time to prepare,” he added