London: Former England captain Michael Atherton has said in his recent statement that the situation that emerged during the Asia Cup has once again made it clear that cricket matches between Pakistan and India are causing more controversy and tension than sports. He said that the ICC should seriously reconsider the holding of matches between the two teams in its events.
Atherton said that the reasons for including Pakistan-India matches in ICC tournaments are mostly economic and diplomatic in nature, but now these competitions have taken the form of politics and interests instead of sports.
He said that “These matches are now revolving around political pressure and commercial interests instead of sports spirit, which is against the true spirit of the game.”
The former captain revealed that the current broadcasting deals include around $3 billion just for the India-Pakistan matches, which is clear evidence that these matches are being viewed more from a commercial perspective than a sport.
He said that in the past, cricket was considered a tool for diplomacy and improving relations, but now these competitions are increasing tensions between the two countries.
According to Atherton, the ICC should ensure impartial draws in future events so that even if Pakistan and India do not come face to face, it is considered a natural and transparent decision.
He stressed that taking cricket out of the realm of politics and vested interests is the need of the hour.
According to him, “Cricket should not be a means of division, but of unity and peace, and that is the true message of the game.”
