The UAE’s successful hosting of this year’s opening IPL stage could encourage India to return to play old rivals Pakistan in the near future, according to Emirates Cricket Board chairman David East.

Over 300,000 fans have flocked through the Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Dubai stadium gates with the vast Indian expat community taking up tickets en masse to see their favourite players in the flesh.

With the Pakistan national team regularly playing their ‘home’ matches in the region and discussions ongoing for more international schedules over the coming years, East is confident that UAE has proven itself a worthy host for one of the biggest rivalries in international cricket.

“Obviously we’re very hopeful that by delivering this tournament well we’re in a position to encourage the Indian cricket board to come back again in the near future,” he said. 

“It would be wonderful if at some stage we are hosting a Pakistan versus India series or IPL matches in due course.” 

The two sides haven’t played in UAE since April 2006, and any potential series could prove to be a huge hit with cricket fans in the country.

East is particularly encouraged by the BCCI’s appraisal during the IPL’s stint in the Emirate and, while noting that a decision is still some way off being made, believes that the positivity of their conversations could lead to further India matches being played here.

“The fact [is] we’ve had [IPL] matches this year only because of the elections taking place in India but we’ve been absolutely delighted with it and we believe that [the BCCI] have as well,” he said.

“All the feedback from the teams and the BCCI have been positive and it’s been a great experience for everyone.”