Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi says that there will be no greater humiliation for India than being beaten by Pakistan in one of the most prestigious cricket competitions, especially on their home turf.
The former all-rounder reiterated that management should encourage their national players to travel to the World Cup and return after winning the trophy. This entire saga should be resolved in a more positive and intelligent manner.
“I don’t understand why they [PCB] are so determined not to go to India. They need to simplify the situation and recognise that an international cricket competition is taking place – accept it positively and go play. Tell your sons to go get the trophy; the entire nation is rooting for them. It’ll be a significant triumph for us as well as a slap in the face for the BCCI,” Afridi added.
The 46-year-old remarked that since we don’t have many options, we should choose the one that is viable and within our means.
“Go to India, play decent cricket, and win.” This is our only alternative; we have no other choice. We’re meant to go there, return with the World Cup, and send them a strong message that we can go anyplace and win,” he continued.
It is worth noting that Afridi previously urged the necessary authorities to make a decision on hosting the Asia Cup in Pakistan as soon as possible, emphasizing the need of keeping cricket and politics separate.
For historical reasons, Pakistan and India are considered as arch-rivals; nonetheless, it is sad that both national teams have not had the opportunity to fight against each other on their respective home grounds in any format of the game since 2012.
