Talent surpasses political tensions

Former India batsman Gautam Gambhir has called for cricket fans to simply enjoy the talents on display in tonight's ICC World T20 clash between the hosts and Pakistan in Kolkata, rather than focusing on any political issues between the two nations.

Gambhir, who played the most recent of his 37 T20Is in December 2012, said the blockbuster clash would be played in good spirits between the fierce rivals.

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The 34-year-old played 28 international matches against Pakistan across the three formats and insists relations among players from both sides are fine, and unaffected by the political landscape.

"I have been a part of numerous India-Pakistan encounters, World Cup or otherwise," Gambhir wrote for the Hindustan Times.

"You have my word that despite my on-field skirmishes with Shahid Afridi and Kamran Akmal, we still are good friends. We never discuss border tensions or politics. Our chat is generally around checking the well-being of cricketers whom we have played with or against."

India bowled Pakistan out for 83 when the two sides met in the Asia Cup last month, though that match also emphatically signalled the return of Mohammad Amir, who took 3-18 in a sizzling spell of fast swing bowling.

Gambhir called out the special talents of the young Pakistani quick while imploring supporters to enjoy the skills of some of the planet's best players.

"To each one of you who’ll be at Eden Gardens on Saturday, I’d suggest just go there and admire a young fast bowler, Mohammad Amir, bowling to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli," he said.

"For a moment forget which countries they represent, what is happening on the LoC ('Line of Control' separating India and Pakistan). Forget the issues that are almost thrust on us by various selfish stakeholders, and just enjoy the talent on both sides.

"I don’t know what Afridi’s real age is, but I doubt if he’ll ever be back in India. Just enjoy the presence of Mohammad Irfan and Wahab Riaz on a cricket field."

Having never lost to India at Eden Gardens and following their strong win over Bangladesh in their World T20 opener, Pakistan have been fancied in some corners to upset the hosts, with legendary former Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar even installing Afridi's side as favourites.

"For me, the contest is between Pakistan’s bowling and India’s batting on a good pitch," Gambhir added. "They will be searching for a proper length to bowl at India batsmen.

"It can be challenging if India bat second as the white ball swings in the evening when temperatures dip a little.

"Mahendra Singh Dhoni is good with tosses and I hope he wins this one and bats first.

"Whatever the result, let us take a pledge that we won’t go over the top. No-one is breaking TV sets and no nasty Facebook posts or Twitter battles. No throwing stones at the houses of cricketers or disturbing their families. Trust me, tomorrow is another day."