Former Pakistani fast bowler Rana Naved-ul-Hasan has recently stirred up controversy with his remarks concerning the highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the upcoming 2023 World Cup. Naved-ul-Hasan claimed that Indian Muslims would support Pakistan in the crucial match against the Men in Blue, scheduled at the renowned Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. These comments have fueled the rivalry between the two cricketing nations, known for their heated encounters on and off the field.
During an interview on the Nadir Ali Podcast, Naved-ul-Hasan expressed his views on the support Pakistan would receive in the 2023 World Cup match against India. He claimed that Indian Muslims would rally behind Pakistan rather than support their national team.
Nadir Ali had asked, “If Pakistan goes to play India in the World Cup 2023, how much support will Pakistan get there, and which team will be stronger there.”
Rana Naved ul Hasan said, “India is the favorite if there is any match in India. Muslims of India support Pakistan instead of India when Pakistan’s match takes place in India.”
The political tensions between India and Pakistan have undoubtedly influenced the dynamics of their cricketing rivalry. Historical and contemporary issues between the two nations have created a charged atmosphere during their matches, with fans and players feeling the weight of national pride. While it is common for cricket to transcend political boundaries and foster camaraderie, the India-Pakistan clash often becomes a stage for showcasing national sentiments.
Naved-ul-Hasan also recounted an incident involving the explosive Indian batsman Virender Sehwag during a match. He claimed to have dismissed Sehwag and took satisfaction in taunting him, saying that he might not have succeeded at the international level in Pakistan. This incident highlights the intensity and mind games often witnessed between players during high-pressure encounters.
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“The first ball I bowled was a slower bouncer that Sehwag missed connecting. I approached him and said, ‘You don’t know how to play. I can’t even. Had you been in Pakistan, I don’t think you would have ever made it to the international team. He said a few things back to me, but I was able to needle him.
On my way back, I told Inzi bhai. ‘Next ball, he is getting out.’ I bowled a back-of-the-hand slower ball, and an infuriated Sehwag tried to hit it big but holed out. The wicket was so important that we won that match.”
'Muslims in India support Pakistan, they will back Pakistan in the 2023 World Cup too' – former Pakistan bowler Rana Naved
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) July 14, 2023
He also reveals Pakistan's players used to receive a lot of support from Muslims in Ahmedabad and Hyderabad in 2000s.
Video Credits: Nadir Ali Podcast pic.twitter.com/VtK0ya5wH4
Rana Naved-ul-Hasan, a former Pakistan limited-overs specialist, enjoyed a successful career as a right-arm seamer. Although he last played for the Pakistan cricket team in 2010, his comments continue to attract attention and fuel discussions.
