Camaraderie between Indo-Pak fans impresses BCCI's Shukla

Cricket fans of India and Pakistan cheer for their teams during the Asia Cup match in Dubai International Stadium.

Dubai - The top official also praised the facilities here in the UAE

By Liaqat Ali

Published: Sun 23 Sep 2018, 10:45 PM

Last updated: Mon 24 Sep 2018, 10:01 AM

A large number of fans from India and Pakistan enjoying a contest between the two countries at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium has impressed Indian Premier League Chairman Rajiv Shukla.
"What excites me most is the presence of Indian and Pakistani supporters together. It creates an atmosphere since it is one of the biggest sports rivalry," Shukla said during an exclusive Facebook live with Khaleej Times.
The top BCCI official also praised the facilities here in the UAE. "I am really impressed by the cricketing facilities here in Dubai, I really appreciate the organisers for hosting such a great event.
"I must salute BCCI and Emirates Cricket Board for such a smooth sailing and everybody here and back home in India is enjoying the quality cricket," he added.
"I am a regular visitor as I attended the inauguration ceremony of this stadium. It is a state-of-the-art stadium," he said while praising the Ring of Fire.
"The BCCI has arranged the IPL here and the facilities are second to none," Shukla said.
Khalid Al Zarooni, Vice-Chairman of Emirates Cricket Board, while talking to Khaleej Times said: "We are thankful to the BCCI, ACC and the boards involved in this tournament to make it happen."
"Sharad Pawar's words about the facility is an honour for us. It is the result of the policies of the government to promote sports."
Al Zarooni added: "It is lovely to see the fans enjoying the game and big winner is the community. We are happy to provide this opportunity to these cricket lovers."
CK Khanna, BCCI president, said: "We are enjoying the game and it has been a smooth affair so far. Dubai Sports City has done a great job by building such a great venue." While answering a question about the possibility of Pakistani players playing in IPL in future, Khanna said: "We are not against Pakistani players playing in the IPL. It is purely up to the franchises to pick players."
liaqat@khaleejtimes.com