BCCI is behaving like a bully, says Miandad

Javed Miandad says public sentiment in Pakistan is for inclusion of ICL players in national team

MUMBAI: Javed Miandad has been the one-stop solution for Pakistan cricket. Captain, coach and now the Director General of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). In his current role, Miandad will be handling cricket operations of the PCB but high on his agenda is the development of the game and improvement of the country’s image worldwide.

Miandad, however, is concerned that a cancellation of India’s tour of Pakistan early next year will put a dent even he might not be able to fix. “India should support Pakistan as a neighbour and a friend. Both India and Sri Lanka have stood by us. They came and played the Asia Cup this year (June-July), which was held without any problem. It is time to show solidarity again,” Miandad told DNA from Islamabad. “Of course, our government will ensure total security. India has to help Pakistan. If they don’t tour then how can we expect any other country to ever visit us?”

India are to tour Pakistan next January-February for three Tests, five ODIs and a Twenty20 match. But the security situation in Pakistan might jeopardize the tour. While the BCCI is ‘keen’, the Indian government will have the final say. Alternative solutions are being spoken of, like holding the series in neutral venues. But Miandad says it won’t help. “Cricket should be played in Pakistan. People want to see international cricket here.”

He is, however, open to reversing the tour. “Let Pakistan tour India on the scheduled dates and India can come back for the return tour a little later, when they feel more comfortable,” said Miandad.

Pakistan has not played a Test on home soil in 2008. Its ODI team has also seen a dip in performance. The 51-year-old believes that in order to revive the game, the PCB needs to look at players like Imran Nazir, Imran Farhat and Rana Naved ul-Hasan. The three performed spectacularly in the Indian Cricket League (ICL) recently. However, a ban on the league, courtesy BCCI, has ensured that these players cannot be picked for the Pakistan squad.

“The BCCI is a very powerful body. But because of its bullying tactics, a lot of people are suffering. All the BCCI needs to do is join hands with ICL,” Miandad said. “PCB is under a lot of pressure from the public and the media to include players like Imran Nazir, Rana Naved and Imran Farhat in the team. If there is such talent, why not utilise them? As a cricketer, I would like to see these boys in the Pakistan squad.”