Heart is in the right place: Raja compares Indo-Pak cricket administrators

Former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja, who is also a renowned commentator, believes that nationalistic approach is vital to success, with regards to cricket administration.

While talking to Express News, Raja gave his two cents on the differences in the way cricket was being run in neighbouring countries India and Pakistan.     

“People who are associated with the PCB or looking for a role in the organization are generally driven by vested interests, rather than adopting a more nationalistic approach,” said Raja.  

“If you take a look at the example of India, especially at lower levels, they have succeeded because people there are working for the betterment of cricket in their country rather than safeguarding their own interests,” he added. “They have their heart in the right place unlike us.”

The former Pakistan opener also reiterated his stance regarding return of tainted cricketers to international cricket.   

“Fans and the society in general needs to put pressure that players involved in spot-fixing should not be forgiven. If it was a one-off than I would agree to it but it’s happening every season which is extremely disappointing,” he said.  

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“You can’t make progress in the right direction if there is lack of honesty in individuals and the system,” he added.

The 57-year-old is also in favour of inducting former cricketers, in order to benefit from their experience, in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).  

“I think former cricketers should be inducted in the cricket board because of their experience of playing on the field,” he said. “We can turn them into good administrators by imparting the necessary knowledge.”