Survivors of Pakistan's 1952 team meet president Parvez Musharraf

Political differences have interrupted their rivalry on a number of occasions since the inaugural series in 1952-53.

At present, India can only play Pakistan in multi-team competitions, such as the World Cup.

But a softening of their government's stance means a resumption of normal cricket contact is on the cards.

The Pakistan veterans, who were honoured at a special ceremony in Islamabad earlier this week, believe cricket can help bring the two countries closer together.

"It is a huge loss, both commercially and public-interest wise, that India does not play us," said former wicket-keeper Imtiaz Ahmed.

"People in both countries are mad over cricket and if it is resumed, we would be closer to each other," added spinner Fazal Mahmood.

Pakistan honours veterans

India have not played a Test match in Pakistan for 14 years, and have not staged a series against them since 2000.

But the meeting of the two sides at the World Cup in South Africa earlier this year showed that their rivalry has not lost any of its intensity.

The Indian government has already given the all-clear for a resumption of cricketing ties at junior levels.

And Indian cricket board (BCCI) president Jagmohan Dalmiya is confident that a similar decision is in the offing with regard to Tests and one-day internationals.

"The government is yet to give final permission,but I think it may be round the corner," he said.