The bilateral matches between India and Pakistan have not happened since 2013, and the two arch-rivals play in the ICC tournament and the Asai Cup. India defeated Pakistan in the Group stage match of the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. The International Cricket Council makes sure to keep at least one game between the two countries.
However, former English cricketer David Lloyd feels that it shouldn’t be pre-scheduled.
During a chat on TalkSPORT, Lloyd said that he is not in favor of fixing matches.
“Fixtures should be independent. We talk about fixing in cricket. The matches between India and Pakistan are kept to make sure they compete against each other once. It is wrong. You can’t fix the schedule. Let the game do it. There is a romance to it. Let the fans look forward to games instead of telling them way in advance about the most awaited contest.”
Lloyd also discussed the different rules for this year’s semi-finals. The India vs England semi-final does not have a reserve day, while the South Africa vs Afghanistan contest does. India didn’t play a single day-night match in the World Cup.
“It is not fair for the teams. We’re just manipulating the tournament to benefit a few. The fans in India will watch the matches anytime, as cricket is a religion over there. Come up with the best planning for the World Cups for the sake of supporters.”
