India needs to have a positive mindset towards Pak tour: Malik

Karachi, Dec 3 (PTI) Cricket can ease the escalating
tension between India and Pakistan and it is important for
Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men to have a positive approach about
next year's tour to the neighbouring nation, feels Pakistan
skipper Shoaib Malik.

"In the past also there have been diplomatic tensions
between the two countries. There have been times when both
countries have amassed their troops on the border but cricket
has always played its role in reducing tensions," he opined.

Malik recalled how former Pakistan President Zia-ul-Haq
had paid a visit to India to watch a cricket match when
relations were not smooth between the two countries, which
later helped in easing the tension.

"There is a history of cricket playing a positive role in
improving relations between the two countries and their
people. That is why I am again insisting it is imperative
India have a positive approach to touring Pakistan in
January," he said.

Malik was of the view that severing cricket ties will act
against improving the relation between the two nations, which
in-turn will encourage the terrorist outfits.

"I don't know who is behind these terrorist attacks in
India and Pakistan but I know this much severing cricket ties
will only further spoil the atmosphere and relations and
encourage the elements behind these attacks," he said.

Malik said Pakistan had toured India in 1999 when
extremist elements had threatened their players.

"But the tour went ahead and it eventually helped reduce
tensions between the two nations and the people. India must
also show the same spirit," he said.

He said when India toured Pakistan in 2004 it ushered in
a new era of trust and friendship between the people of both
the nation and the government level peace process.

Malik admitted that Pakistani players were demoralised
and frustrated with the lack of opportunities to play
international cricket.

"We are professionals but it is hard to get through such
a period. To improve as a team we need to play maximum
international matches. That is also why the Indian series is
so significant for us."

The former Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, Tauqir
Zia also highlighted the importance of the series and said,
"I say even if India does not want to tour Pakistan we must
play them at neutral venues. But this series must be held or
else it will send out a wrong message."

Zia said if India wanted to improve their relation with
Pakistan, the Test series should take place as per schedule.

"Cricket has always played a big role in the
sub-continent and in improving relations between the two
countries."

Zia said he would even call on the Asian bloc to unite
and make efforts to play against each other regularly and
convince other countries also to tour India and Pakistan
regularly.