Sport - Cricket

‘Playing at neutral venues won’t help Pakistan much’

Kolkata: Former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath feels playing Tests at neutral venues would not be of much help to Pakistan.

“Playing at home is different altogether and when you play Test matches in a third country, its never going to be the same,” Amarnath said.

“They have signed some contract with Dubai, but it is never going to be the same,” he added.

Amarnath said Pakistan not playing a single Test match this year was sad as the lack of international cricket in the country after the recent bomb blasts would affect the prospect of youngsters dreaming to represent the nation.

“It’s very sad for Pakistan cricket, the country and the people. Sportsmen like to continue with their activities. But such incidents hamper the prospect of the younger players who are dreaming to represent the country,” he said.

However, he hoped that things will settle down in Pakistan very soon.“I can only pray that things get better in Pakistan and the players play more cricket as it is definitely missing. I hope that things will settle down and they have a series in Pakistan,” he said. “Naturally, players are worried, their families are worried,” said Amarnath when asked whether the countries, opting not to play in Pakistan because of the blasts, were justified.

He said Pakistan should exploit the scenario by promoting the players and the game at the domestic front, and a lot of cricket should take place in the country. As to what role India can play by extending a hand of support to Pakistan players, he replied, “What India can do, tell me. Why should we take care of another country, why not our own country? Why to deprive our players?” — PTI

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu