Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Cricket diplomacy

Sir, — The Government's decision to go ahead with the cricket tour to Pakistan is welcome. It is now up to the people of Pakistan, spectators and security personnel, to make the series a success and ensure that this is a new beginning.

P. Krishna,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — The decision of the Union Home Ministry not to send any security personnel with the cricket team to Pakistan is praiseworthy. It will help strengthen mutual ties and confidence.

Debasish Baruah,
Jorhat, Assam

* * *

Sir, — Notwithstanding the promise of the Pakistani authorities to provide special security to our players, the fear of a possible terrorist attack is genuine. For gaining political mileage, the Government can ill-afford to risk their lives.

P. Sarangapani,
Kumbakonam, T.N.

* * *

Sir, — It has been suggested that no test matches be played at Karachi and Peshawar in view of security. Leaving aside the effect of such things on our players' performance, one wonders if the series should go ahead at any cost. Even if one of our boys is injured, the obscurantist forces in our own backyard may exploit the situation. Let us remember that discretion is the better part of valour.

I.S. Kanthimathinathan,
Tirunelveli, T.N.

* * *

Sir, — With Mr. Advani stating that the security of the Indian cricketers during the tour will be the responsibility of the Pakistan Government, their fate is being placed in jeopardy. Our players must be given the choice to opt out if they are apprehensive. Do the two governments have any disaster management plans if a Kandahar-like situation develops during the tour?

Premkumar,
Chennai

* * *

Sir, — This is with reference to your editorial, "Play it like a game" (Feb. 14). In theory, sports and politics should not be mixed. But it is also true that an average Indian does not care if India loses a cricket match to any country other than Pakistan. Could it be a case of sibling rivalry?

Ranjit Grover,
Tripunithura, Kerala

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