Karachi: Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja feels the bilateral series with India would not be possible in December and said in these circumstances PCB should try to host the Pakistan Super League on schedule.
Pakistan was scheduled to play a bilateral series against India consisting of three Tests, five ODIs and two T20s in UAE in December this year. "I don't think that the series against India will be possible in December due to the existing political relations between the two countries," Ramiz, a well-known commentator and pundit said.
"I would love to see the two teams revive their traditional cricket rivalry but it does not seem eminently possible at this time given the relations and issues between the two countries.”
"In such a scenario it is important for the cricket board to have the PSL in February for the image and improvement of Pakistan cricket," he said.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has appointed Ramiz and another former Test captain Wasim Akram as brand ambassadors for the PSL for the next three years. "I think the board decided to appoint us as brand ambassadors to make use of our experience. And we will do everything in our power to raise the PSL as a brand. We are available for this work all the time," he said.
The former skipper said that if the PSL is launched successfully, not only would it mean financial benefits for Pakistan cricket and the board but also allow the new and young Pakistani players to gain much needed international exposure.
"The PSL is the best platform to give opportunities to our under-19 and budding players. If all our current top players take part in the league it should be a big success," he said.
Ramiz was also unwilling to change his views on allowing the tainted trio of Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif or Mohammad Amir back into cricket. "In my book there is no forgiveness as such which would allow them to play cricket again. I would advise the PCB to support them and use them in social and anti-corruption work but not bring them back into the sport," he said.
