The strained political and diplomatic relations of Pakistan with India especially after the 26/11 Mumbai attacks have to a large extant changed the point of view of Indian political community towards Pakistan. But this time it has influenced sports arena particularly the cricket which was a strong binding force between the two nations. India may have many versions and theories to justify the expulsion of Pakistani cricket players from the IPL, but the point is that cricket has been victimised. Some Indian politicians termed it as a disappointing decision of the IPL franchises and some kept mum. But the exclusion move was neither explained nor justified. The entire Pakistani community termed the decision as a political conspiracy of India to humiliate Pakistani cricket stars.  Everybody knows that cricket is not merely a sport but has commercial enterprise too. And IPL is not just a sports extravaganza, but a commercial event for the authorities and franchises. Pakistani players are stars of cricket. They are world T-20 champions. They possess quality, class and have commercial value too. Then why couldn't even a single player from Pakistan find a place in the IPL teams. Rajasthan Royal's plus-factor in IPL season-1 was Suhail Tanveer and cricket fans know that Afridi is in a fabulous form. Then why were they left out. IPL authorities’ version that franchises were not interested in Pakistani players is baseless. When players like Harshad Patel, Adam Voges, Justin Kemp who are yet to show their talent in world cricket could manage to find a place in IPL teams, then how can it be that world class players who have proved their mettle in every format of the game couldn't manage to get through. IPL without Pakistani players will look like a war without warriors. Truth is that cricket between India and Pakistan will never be as interesting if political factor is ignored, but this time it appears that cricket fraternity of India has indirectly backed the political community. If politicians can't confront each other directly, why don’t they try other indirect means. And the fact that cricket in India is indirectly controlled and directed by the political authorities can't be ignored. IPL authorities like Indian Political authorities have sent a clear message to Pakistani establishment that as long as your mindset doesn't turn optimistic towards India, we are not prepared even to maintain sports relations with you. And India knows the ways other than direct confrontation to harm those who think of harming her. The example is before you to understand.
Aijaz Hussain Malik
Sonim, Pattan

Lastupdate on : Sun, 31 Jan 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 1 Feb 2010 00:00:00 IST