If India doesn't want to come...': Ex-Pakistan cricketer blasts BCCI after anchor calls ICC 'Indian Cricket Council

 Recently, former Pakistan cricketer Abdur Rehman criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their reluctance to resume cricketing ties with Pakistan. Rehman's comments came after an anchor on a news channel referred to the International Cricket Council (ICC) as the Indian Cricket Council, which he saw as a reflection of the Indian board's excessive influence in world cricket.

Rehman's comments reflect a long-standing issue between the two countries, where political tensions have spilled over into the realm of sports. Despite the historical rivalry between the two cricketing nations, fans on both sides of the border have been yearning for the resumption of cricketing ties between India and Pakistan.

The BCCI has been reluctant to engage in bilateral series with Pakistan, citing political tensions as the reason. This has led to an overall decline in the frequency of matches between the two nations, with the last time they played a Test series being in 2007-08.

Rehman, who played 22 Tests and 31 ODIs for Pakistan, expressed his frustration with the BCCI's position. He stated that "if India doesn't want to come, they should just say it outright", rather than using political tensions as a pretext to avoid playing cricket against their neighbors.

Cricket is an essential part of the cultural and social fabric of both countries, and it is disappointing that political tensions have interfered with the sport. The resumption of cricketing ties between India and Pakistan would be a step towards normalizing relations between the two countries and promoting goodwill.

Sports have often been a unifying factor in societies, and cricket is no exception. The sport has brought together people from all walks of life, transcending geographical, cultural, and political boundaries. The passion and enthusiasm that fans have for the game are unparalleled and, as a result, the resumption of cricketing ties between India and Pakistan would bring immense joy and excitement to millions of fans.

In conclusion, it is high time that the BCCI puts aside political differences and takes a positive step towards resuming cricketing ties with Pakistan. This would not only be in the best interest of the sport but also a positive step towards fostering better relations between the two nations. As Rehman rightly pointed out, it is time for India to come forward and be transparent about its intentions rather than using political tensions as an excuse to avoid playing cricket with Pakistan. Only then can we hope to see the full potential of cricket realized between these two cricketing giants.