A win for Imran Khan is also a win for India and Pakistan relations on and off the pitch, claims his former team-mate and manager Intikhab Alam.
Khan, 65, completed his decades-long transformation from colourful cricketer to leader of his people after claiming victory in the Pakistan election on Wednesday.
And though the former all-rounder has many issues to contend with once he officially becomes Prime Minister, cricket is also likely to receive a boost in the country according to Alam.
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series with each other since 2012/13 due to the simmering political tension between both states.
But Alam, a former all-rounder himself and team manager of the victorious Pakistan team at the 1992 World Cup, is confident that Khan’s appointment brings fresh hope.
“I know for the fact that he has some very good ideas for domestic cricket and he will do his best to implement them. I have no doubt in my mind that he will do his level best for the resumption of cricket between Pakistan and India,” said Alam, speaking from Lahore.
Imran supporter: Intikhab Alam.
Few would have believed that Khan would ascend to the highest office in his country during his younger days, but Alam says he always had the necessary tools.
“Now if you think of it, I think he made a right decision to enter into politics. He is a fighter, honest, hard working, determined and visionary person,” added Alam.
“Throughout the 1992 World Cup, Imran Khan was not even 70 per cent fit because of his shoulder injury. Not many people know this but he played because of his will power, determination and love for the county.”