Unite and rule

Sport, the equivalent of ancient war, often seems to divide — drawing out fierce passions and, in some cases, open bigotry. But it can also be a powerful uniting force, bringing people together and drawing upon all that is best in man. The Indian prime minister’s generous invitation to President Zardari and Prime Minister Gilani to join him at Mohali next week, to watch the semi-final encounter between Pakistan and India represents this side of sport. This latest chapter in cricket diplomacy represents a rare chance for the two countries to patch up relations that have been strained since 2008. We must hope that, without any delay, the offer is accepted by the Pakistani prime minister. The indications are he will do so. And amidst the roar of the crowds at Mohali, relations between the two countries could move back onto an even keel.

There have also been other indications of willingness by New Delhi to make a new start and repair torn relations. Special security arrangements are being made for the Pakistan team, given the threats of a possible attack. Statements by the Shiv Sena have been condemned by many. It is true that the clash at Mohali will be tense. For many in the subcontinent, it represents a game as crucial as the final. But it could also offer an opportunity to move beyond the world of cricket, into the arena of regional relations. The opportunity opened up by Manmohan Singh’s remarks must be seized. It would be a disaster to squander it. The benefits of closer ties are obvious. They come in the economic sphere, in terms of people-to-people relations and in many other areas. Building trust with India could be the key to dealing with issues of extremism and militancy. Looking to the East could be crucial to moving beyond the realm of violence, based on warped religious belief into which we have moved. If cricket can help achieve this, the contribution of the sport would be an enormous one — going beyond any feats on the field itself, no matter how dramatic these may be.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 27^th, 2011.