The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) organises the Kashmir Premier League (KPL), a six-team tournament that began in 2021, with Rawalakot Hawks winning the inaugural title. With the second volume of the league set to begin on August 1, the final on August 14, and 2 additional teams being added, the KPL President intends to extend an invitation to former Indian captain Virat Kohli.
KPL president, Arif Malik also confirmed that the league has decided to send an invitation to the former Indian skipper. “We consider this as a sign of peace” they added.
“Rizwan gave a very positive message that cricket should be beyond anything else. So, we are sending a letter to Virat Kohli, inviting him to play in the league or at least come and watch one match. It’s a message of peace from our side, now it is up to him, whether he accepts it or not,” Malik said in a video message.
“We are ready to host other Indian players as well. We believe that sports are the only way to bridge the gap between the two countries.”
We are sending a formal invitation to Virat Kohli.
It's up to Virat Kohli whether to become part of the league as a player or as a special guest. We are sending a message of peace through KPL and want Indian cricketers to be part of the league.
" Arif Malik President of KPL" pic.twitter.com/OopBpeZ6oj— Kashmir Premier League (@kpl_20) May 17, 2022
Not long ago, the former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, also the serving Director of Cricket Operations for Kashmir Premier League, said that the league must send multiple invitations to other international boards as well. He also hinted at inviting the Run-Machine, Virat Kohli, to this season of the KPL.
We should send an invitation [to Virat Kohli] but the decision to play lies with the player,” said Latif while speaking to Dawn News.
“It’s good to initiate such a thing. I also advised [Najam] Sethi to send invitations to all cricket boards, which includes BCCI as well, for PSL. If we get good resources, we will try to put them to good use and organise a good tournament. We want people in Pakistan and outside Pakistan to enjoy the league.”
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The decision lies, collectively on Virat Kohli to whether to accept the offer or to focus on the upcoming T20 world cup which is to be held in the month of October. India is supposed to play two series against two of the strongest teams in the globe right now. In June, India takes on South Africa in a home series whereas in July Indian team will be rerouting to the English Derby for a Test series against England.