Legendary Pakistan cricketer Wasim Akram has stated that India should open its doors to Pakistani players in the next IPL auction due early November, as this would help 'improve ties' between the two countries.
In his column in the Daily Times, Akram said, "With the IPL auction due early November, I am really keen to see Pakistan players this time around. Pakistan players add charm to the matches by sheer capability. Players like Umar Gul, Afridi and Saeed Ajmal can be assets for any team. Young quickie Mohammad Irfan is also an exciting T20 cricketer."
"More importantly, the IPL following will grow in Pakistan and fans will follow the league. They will also identify with the franchises and their players. That is why it is crucial to open the doors to Pakistan players. It will only improve ties between India and Pakistan," he added.
Talking about the future of Test cricket when the shorter versions of the game are fast becoming more popular, the former Pakistan captain said that the Mohali match between India and Australia "has been a great advertisement for the five-day game."
He however rued that "a two-match series is unfair on the visiting side," and opined that the "ICC must make it mandatory to have at least a three-Test series, if not a five-match contest."
Commenting on the present condition of Pakistan team, Akram said, "Our players have been in the news for the wrong reason and it's all hunky-dory out there. It is so sad to see senior players sitting out when the Pakistan team needs them. Crisis and more crisis are crippling Pakistan cricket. The good is being overshadowed by the bad and that is unfortunate."
The left-arm fast bowler however expressed the hope that the team would "forget about the controversies" and "give their 100 percent" in the upcoming series against South Africa in the UAE.
