He believes that Pakistan is a strong team with an exceptional bowling attack and will be an exciting competition when playing abroad. Rohit has previously expressed his desire to play against Pakistan in an overseas Test series and being excited about the prospect of an India-Pakistan Test is nothing new.
Political tensions affecting cricket
India and Pakistan have not participated in bilateral cricket since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, but International Cricket Council (ICC) events continue to participate. The last Test match between the two countries took place in 2007/08. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has maintained that any decision regarding bilateral cricket with Pakistan will depend on government approval, which is yet to come. However, Pakistan is actively pursuing bilateral engagement with India and has taken it up in ICC forums whenever possible.
Upcoming tournaments and potential points of contention
The Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held in Pakistan, is another potential point of contention between the two countries, with Pakistan refusing to consider changing the venue.
The ICC said it had no intention of forcing member states to ignore government recommendations and stressed the importance of respecting national policies.
Bilateral Series and the Future of Test Cricket
Rohit has decided not to play bilateral cricket series abroad given the uncertainty surrounding the prospects of playing in both countries amid ongoing political deadlock.
I agree with the idea that playing is beneficial to the health of Test cricket.
The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan was in 2012-13 when Pakistan visited India.
This is evident from Rohit’s belief that regular bilateral cricket series between India and Pakistan will be a major rivalry between the two countries.
Young talent in Pakistan’s bowling line
Traditionally known for their speed, Pakistan’s bowling line currently boasts young talents like Naseem Shah and Aamer Jamal, who are just 21 and 25 years old respectively.
These young talents make Pakistan a formidable opponent in Test cricket, further fuelling Rohit’s desire to face Pakistan in foreign conditions.
Rohit Sharma’s interest in playing Test cricket against Pakistan at a neutral venue or abroad highlights the possibility of a major rivalry between the two teams.
However, political tensions and government approvals continue to be a challenge for the India-Pakistan bilateral cricket series, with the ICC’s position on the upcoming Champions Trophy being held in Pakistan and the government’s recommendation It will be an important factor in the future of cricket relations.