The last time India and Pakistan faced off in the longest format of the game was back in 2007. The two rivals tend to play each other only at multi-nation tournaments, but doubt was cast over that future recently by BCCI chief Anurag Thakur.
In December 2012-January 2013, Pakistan did play in a bi-lateral limited overs series in India consisting of two T20Is and three ODIs. The T20I series was drawn 1-1 while the visitors won the ODI series 1-2.
And while political tensions increase between the two nations, it seems increasingly unlikely that we will see a repeat of that anytime soon.
For Pakistan chief selector Inzaman-ul-Haq, it is a disappointing situation.
In an interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI), Inzamam said: “What can one say on this Indian refusal since 2007 to play us in Test matches.
“It is disappointing for me as I have played and captained against India in both countries and I know how much these matches mean to people of both countries and cricket world.”
The legendary Pakistan batsman further added that Pakistan have the capability to take the number one Test ranking away from India.
India snatched the top spot on the ICC Test Rankings from Pakistan after their series win against New Zealand, but Misbah-ul-Haq’s men have a chance to get back to the number one spot if India fail to win the third Test against the Blackcaps [as explained here].
“There is nothing we can do but Pakistan is still capable of beating other teams and get back the number one Test spot from India,” said Inzamam.
Inzamam is also of the opinion that India tend to struggle on the road while Pakistan do better. He cited the example of the two teams touring England in the recent past.
Pakistan drew their Test series against Alastair Cook’s men recently, while India were beaten 3-1 when they last toured England in 2014.
“India is playing 13 Tests at home in the next few months, we have not played at home since 2009. But I still believe this Pakistan team can do well anywhere and against anyone,” he said.
“The way we fought back from 1-2 down to level the series in England was a heartening performance. India has not done that well outside their country in Tests. They lost their last series in England.”
