Rajeev Shukla snubs Shoaib Akhtar's 'comical' proposal of an India-Pak bilateral series

Following Kapil Dev and Madan Lal, former IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla on Thursday brushed off former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar's proposal of an India-Pakistan bilateral series to raise funds for COVID-19 relief. Shukla opined that it is a 'matter of fun' as Akhtar is talking about an India-Pakistan match in this time of crisis. 

Speaking to news ncy ANI, former IPL chairman stated that Akhtar is a 'jolly' and 'moody' man and if he is talking about a cricket match at this moment, n it is a matter of fun. Shukla added that re is uncertainty over IPL and questioned who will allow players to play and spectators to come watch match. 

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He also opined that India-Pakistan generally don't play bilateral series and at a time like this when situation is worst, match cant happen and hence statement by Akhtar is 'comic.' India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2007 and have just encountered each or in Asia Cup and or ICC events after that. 

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Akhtar proposes bilateral series, seeks India's help

former Pakistan speedster had proposed a three-match ODI series between India and Pakistan at a neutral venue like Dubai and suggested that players can be flown out of city in chartered planes. Akhtar also sought India's help and requested neighbouring country for supply of 10,000 ventilators to aid Pakistan's crippled medical infrastructure. He added that "Pakistan will remember this gesture forever." 

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Former India skipper Kapil Dev had earlier rejected Akhtar's proposal and stated that  India already has eugh money and a cricket match would be putting lives of cricketers at stake. He also said that India currently has eugh money as many members from Indian sporting fraternity have made donations towards battle against coronavirus.

According to Johns Hopkins University, Pakistan currently has 4,263 cases. On or hand, India has 5,734 cases as per most recent bulletin by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. 

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