Roger Binny believes that former Indian and Pakistani players can play an influential role in the resumption of bilateral cricket ties between the two countries.

"Ex-players can increase pressure on the governments by giving out statements and interacting at every level," the former Indian Test player said late on Sunday.

The 48-year-old, who was a member of his country's 1983 World Cup-winning team, stated that the freeze in cricket links between Pakistan and India is purely a political decision.

"I know that people in both countries and even the players want to see the two countries play against each other. There is no bigger contest for them than an Indo-Pak clash," he said.

Binny, who played 12 of his 27 Tests against Pakistan between 1979 and 87 feels the time is right for the Indian government to allow a resumption of bilateral cricket ties.

"You really can't pinpoint an exact time. But I think it is a good idea to start playing at the junior and 'A' team levels and than move onto the senior teams.

"Relations between the players off the field have always been good, but it is sad that we have not played more often against each other."

However, Binny said the resumption of ties should not be at a neutral venue and both teams should play in each other's countries.

The Indian government has not allowed its team to play Pakistan since June 2000 and the last time India made a full test tour to Pakistan was in 1989.