Cricket and politics should be separate: Misbahul Haq

Test captain said matches between the two rivals is what their fans want

Pakistan Test captain, Misbahul Haq has said that he fully supports the revival of Pakistan and India bilateral cricket relations, reported Press Trust of India. 

Misbah said cricket should not be affected by the ups and downs in political ties between India and Pakistan.

"I believe that Pakistan and India should be playing against each other in bilateral series regularly and playing cricket should not be linked to the overall political relations between the two nations," he said.

The veteran batsman added that in the past cricket had played a significant role in improving the relations between the neighbouring regions and the fans in the two countries also wanted to see cricket played between them.

"I am all for Pakistan and India resuming bilateral ties this year as it is good for the sport and players in both countries," he added.

The 41 year-old cricketer recently revealed that he would like to end his career with a series against traditional rivals, India and hoped that such a series would transpire later this year in December.

Read: Misbahul Haq to retire after India series

Misbah is not the first cricketer to voice his support for resumption of cricketing ties between the two nations. Former captain Inzamamul Haq also called for regular cricket ties with India earlier this week.

"Regardless of where we play we should play India on regular basis," he added.

Read: Must play India to learn how to play under pressure: Inzamamul Haq

Misbah, who retired from One-day cricket after the World Cup, said that it was important that Pakistan launch its super league T20 event next year in February.

"It is something which will benefit the players and even our cricket structure and image immensely. No matter where we play because of existing conditions in Pakistan but the super league should be launched," he said.

The Test captain was of the opinion that once the super league was underway it would also benefit Pakistani players and cricket financially.