NEW DELHI, Aug 27: India’s new Sports Minister Vikram Verma Tuesday ruled out early resumption of India-Pakistan cricket ties, saying “ground realities” had to change significantly before a favourable decision could be taken, he was quoted as saying by Press Trust of India.

“We have to consider other aspects when it comes to Pakistan, since the ground realities are different. We have to wait for things to improve,” he said.

Verma said cricket matches with Pakistan generated a lot of passion in both the countries and the government would not resume ties till it was convinced of a conducive atmosphere.

“A lot of passion and emotions are associated with cricket matches against Pakistan. National prestige also comes in the picture. We need to think about these things,” he said.

Verma said sports and culture generally strengthened the bonds of friendship among countries but with Pakistan it was a different scenario.

Asked why the government had snapped cricketing relations only while carrying on with other sports, Verma said, “Pakistan mainly plays cricket and hockey.”—JN