Akhtar’s jibe will not affect Indo-Pak cricket ties: BCCI

Akhtar’s jibe will not affect Indo-Pak cricket ties: BCCINew Delhi, Sept 26 : The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has said Shoaib Akhtar's autobiography might have created tension in the Indian community, but it will not affect the renewal of Pakistan-India cricket ties.

The former fast-bowler had claimed in his book that Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, who is also referred to as the God of Cricket, was afraid of his bowling. He had also alleged that Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan had cheated him regarding payments of his Indian Premier League stint.

Following criticism of his remarks, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Ijaz Butt expressed concern that ties between both boards could be strained.

However, BCCI Vice-President Rajiv Shukla, however, said that while the remarks against Indians was `uncalled for', the revival of a bilateral series between the two countries would not be affected.

"The remarks are uncalled for, but they will not affect Pakistan, India cricketing relations. We're not taking offense because these are an individual's remarks," The Express Tribune quoted Shukla, as saying.

"We remain committed in our plans of finalising a series soon and Akhtar's jibe will not affect this," he added.

Both countries have not played a series against each other since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Chances of reviving cricketing ties were raised after Pakistan Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar's visited India. (ANI)