In what is set to be a controversial week ahead at the International Cricket Council (ICC) ahead of this week’s board meeting, India is trying to lure Pakistan with a bilateral series even agreeing to play at a nutral venue in UAE.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Emergent Working Committee, which met in Chennai last week, approved a series against Pakistan and the sudden change of heart or the eagerness to play Pakistan is being seen by many as a carrot that has been dangled for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to support India’s proposal — along with England and Australia — to gain control over huge the ICC.
As reported by Hulf news, former ICC president Ehsan Mani said: “BCCI has at least twice in the past offered to play against Pakistan if the PCB supported the BCCI at the ICC and each time it has reneged on its promise.”
India have not toured Pakistan for more than five years because of security concerns and as a result they may opt to play in the UAE.
It is well-known that Pakistan have been staging all their home series in Dubai in recent years and it is understood the BCCI has told the PCB that, despite a tight schedule, India would be available to play in the UAE.
As per sources, Gulf News says Pakistan are to play Zimbabwe in a home series in Dubai during December but, if the India series happens, then the Zimbabwe tour would be postponed.
Meanwhile, former Pakistan skipper Rameez Raja has advises the PCB to support the India-Australia-England proposal.
“Eventually it is a proposal that will be accepted,” Rameez argued. “Pakistan must make best use of this situation and try to not only get long-term financial benefits but also more series against these three nations.”
Seven votes are required for the proposal to go through and most nations, especially those struggling financially, are expected to support the proposal to maintain India’s stroghold in ICC.
