Viv Richards backs Pakistan after India refuse to tour for Asia Cup 2023

Sir Viv Richards, the legendary West Indian batsman, has thrown his support behind Pakistan after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chose not to send their squad across the border for next year's Asia Cup.

Richards is part of the Pakistan Junior League (PJL) as a mentor of the Gwadar Sharks. He opined Pakistan is a secure place to play cricket.

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“I feel at home whenever I’m in Pakistan. I don’t face any issues in Pakistan and feel extremely safe here,” said Richards as quoted by local media outlet.

The 70-year-old also emphasized the significance of matches between neighboring countries.

“It is always great to watch matches between Pakistan and India. I want to see these teams clash more often, and hopefully, things will change in the future,” he said.

It should be mentioned that BCCI Secretary Jay Shah confirmed India's decision not to travel to Pakistan following the AGM on Tuesday.

The Asia Cup in 2023 will be a 50-over event to prepare for the following year's ODI World Cup in India.

Due to tense relations between the two countries, India has not traveled to Pakistan since 2008.

The archrivals last played a bilateral series in 2012, when Pakistan toured India for limited-overs matches.

The two countries have only met in ICC and ACC competitions recently.