Former Pakistan speedster Akhtar pointed out that cricket had always played a big role in bringing the people of the two countries closer.
"I am happy that our Prime Minister is in India and I hope cricket ties are discussed in these big meetings. Because it is necessary to have bilateral cricket ties between the two countries," Akhtar told PTI.
"It is particularly important for Pakistan as whenever Pakistan and India play against each other these matches bring financial rewards for both boards and the PCB in particular needs a financial boost," he said.
Flamboyant all-rounder Afridi also wants to see more Indo-Pak series' in future. "I hope with our prime minister also going to India the Indian board responds positively and we see bilateral matches soon," he said.
Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan also backed the restoration of bilateral cricket ties.
"Our Prime Minister himself has played cricket and is a keen student and follower of cricket so I am sure this subject would have been discussed by him in these meetings," Younis told reporters in Lahore.