Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley has expressed a strong interest in organising a high-profile tri-series involving India and Pakistan amidst escalating anticipation for a clash between the traditional rivals, which has always been a major attraction in the cricketing world.
Hockley emphasised the immense enthusiasm surrounding India-Pakistan encounters and reiterated Cricket Australia’s commitment to support and facilitate bilateral as well as tri-series events involving the two nations.
"We are ready to support both teams for a bilateral and a tri-series," Hockley added, emphasising the Australian cricket governing body's readiness to facilitate these high-stakes matches.
"We would be happy to play a role in the revival of Pakistan-India bilateral series," said Hockley, reflecting Cricket Australia's eagerness to bring these two cricketing giants together on the same pitch.
However, he also mentioned that any such plans would require coordination between the respective cricket boards and governments of both India and Pakistan.
"The two boards need to decide first, and we will assist in hosting," he said, adding that formal discussions have yet to take place due to the busy schedules of the cricket boards involved.
Considering Afghanistan's remarkable win against Australia, Hockley congratulated the Afghan team for their exceptional performance.
He acknowledged the challenges the Afghan cricketers faced, particularly in the context of human rights issues affecting women's cricket in the country.
Hockley also expressed hope for future progress that would allow for the resumption of bilateral cricket between two countries.
Despite current restrictions, Cricket Australia maintains close communication with the Afghanistan Cricket Board and remains committed to supporting the growth of the sport in Afghanistan.
While addressing questions regarding the support for Afghan women'' cricket, he noted that several Afghan women cricketers residing in Australia are actively engaged in local cricket clubs, accredited to the support of the Australian cricketing community.
Hockley emphasised Cricket Australia's commitment to advocating for women's cricket and expressed hope for positive changes that would allow Afghan women to participate more fully in the sport.
"We absolutely want to see cricket grow and thrive all around the world for women and men," Hockley said.
"The ongoing dialogue with the Afghanistan Cricket Board aims to encourage the development of women's cricket in Afghanistan, despite current political and social challenges."