PHOTO: AFP
"The World T20 is an ICC event and we should participate in it at all costs. If we don't it will harm us in the long run," said Akram while talking at a function in Karachi .
"Not playing in the World T20 will only affect our players and our cricket.”
The former Pakistan captain also went on to say that Pakistan cricket can survive without playing against India.
India, Pakistan deadlock continues on cricket series
“If India doesn't want to play us then that's fine, we can also survive without playing them,” said Akram.
The left-arm great, who is the second highest wicket taker in the ODI format, blamed the Indians for taking too long to decide about the series, and also urged their authorities to understand that playing or not playing cricket will not solve the problem of terrorism.
"I realise that the Indians have taken too long to decide on the bilateral series with Pakistan,” said Akram.
“The problem of terrorism will not be affected whether we play or not."
Islamabad gives all clear for Pakistan-India series
However, the 49-year-old remains hopeful of the chances of the series in the near future.
“Even if it does not happen now, it will happen soon," concluded Akram.
The article originally appeared on NDTV.com
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