New Delhi: Shahid Afridi has a solution for India-Pakistan problems—play more cricket. In a press conference, the former Pakistani cricketer said that this is the only way to resolve animosity between the neighbours. But what got Pakistani fans’ attention was the former all-rounder’s comments on Babar Azam’s captaincy and batting.
Afridi said he wants the ICC Champions Trophy be held in Pakistan with India’s participation. He also hoped that Babar Azam wins his next trophy on home ground but added that he needs to improve in order to be as good a captain as he is a batsman.
Many chose to ignore his comments about India, but were quick to take offence to his comments on Babar.
“Who the hell is he? Why is he talking about Babar Azam? Afridi aap Babar ke joote ke khaak barabar bhi nahi (You are not even worth his shoe dust),” an X user wrote.
Imran Siddique, the sports reporter at Dawn, came to Afridi’s support. “Mindset of today’s generation, they start watching cricket in Covid, For their kind knowledge Afridi was player of the tournament in 2007 T20 World cup. Afridi was man of the match in Semi final and Final of T20 World cup 2009. Afridi was the highest wicket taker in 2011 World cup. Afridi is still the greatest All-rounder by numbers in Pakistan till date. And a lot of records and man of the match for Pakistan,” he posted on X.
To this, another user wrote: “You keep talking about 2009. Please tell us about other records as well, if any? And what has he achieved ever in captaincy?”
Indian fans too joined the discussion in support of Afridi.
One Indian user wrote, “Bhai tmhare babar se behtar performance h Shahid Afridi ki..as an indian hme tmhare babar se dar ni lgta jb vo crease pe hota h fir bhi..but Shahid Afridi se lgta tha bcz he is match winner….so babar se bolo big stage pe performance de ..” (Brother, Shahid Afridi is a better performer than Babar. As an Indian, we used to be more stressed when Afridi would be on crease because he was a match winner)
Also read: Shahid Afridi surprised with Babar Azam’s comeback—Pakistanis call it ‘Amreci sazish’
Cricket the only solution
Amid all this Afridi’s comments on India were drowned out.
“Only one personality has changed. We all know his past records within India, and his thoughts regarding Muslims. It is in front of all of us. It is wrong since it is necessary for a politician to ensure good relations with other countries. Anyway, neighbours tend to assert their rights over each other. In my opinion, there is no solution apart from cricket,” the cricketer said.
An Indian account made fun of the cricketer by sharing a video of the press conference with the caption “Shahid Afridi crying”. A Pakistani didn’t understand the sarcasm and responded saying “It’s unfortunate to see Shahid Afridi in tears. Regardless of politics, it’s important to remember that athletes are human too. As for Modi’s approach, focusing on internal progress rather than external tensions can indeed be a constructive strategy”.
Another user said, “Shahid Afridi’s emotions highlight the deep-rooted passion for cricket in Pakistan. While political dynamics remain complex, shifting focus towards domestic growth and progress is essential.”
SAMAA TV too mentioned his comment briefly in their show.
(Edited by Theres Sudeep)