Shahid Afridi, the iconic all-rounder of Pakistan, has ignited the cricketing world with his bold statement, declaring that a victory for Pakistan in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup held in India would not only be a monumental achievement for the team but also serve as a significant response to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
As Pakistan aims to capture its second World Cup title, Afridi’s words echo the hopes and aspirations of a cricket-loving nation that seeks to relive the glory of their 1992 triumph under Imran Khan’s leadership.
Afridi’s declaration signifies the challenge ahead for the Pakistani cricket team. With a single 50-over World Cup title secured in 1992, Pakistan’s journey to replicate that historic achievement in a highly competitive tournament like the World Cup is indeed daunting.
The former cricketer’s message to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to communicate the significance of the task to the players underscores the idea of instilling a sense of responsibility and heroism in the team. By reminding the players that they have the potential to be national heroes by clinching the World Cup trophy, Afridi taps into the emotional connection between the team and the passionate cricket enthusiasts of Pakistan.
Afridi’s statement has a dual purpose: to inspire the Pakistani team and send a message to the cricketing world, especially the BCCI. The rivalry between Pakistan and India in cricket is one of the most intense and closely followed. Afridi’s mention of a “tight slap on the face of the BCCI” reflects the competitive spirit and the desire to prove themselves on the global stage.
“Tell your boys to get the trophy; the nation stands behind you. It’ll not only be a big win for us but a tight slap on the face of BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India),” he was quoted as saying by Cricket Pakistan.
With the upcoming 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup and the tournament being held in India, Afridi’s challenge adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation. He urges the Pakistani team to play exceptional cricket, dominate matches, and bring the World Cup trophy home. Afridi’s call for a resounding victory speaks to the heart of every Pakistani cricket fan’s aspiration.
“Go to India, play decent cricket, and claim the win. This is it; we have only this option resorted to ourselves. We are supposed to go there, land back with the World Cup and give them a clear message that we can go anywhere and bag the victory.” Afridi stated.
“One minor injury, you will play IPL but not for India”: Kapil Dev’s Scathing Attack At Indian Star Player
Before the World Cup, Pakistan faces a series of engagements, including a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sri Lanka and the Asia Cup in Pakistan and Sri Lanka. These events provide crucial opportunities for the team to fine-tune their skills, build cohesion, and create a winning momentum ahead of the grand tournament.
Pakistan Squad for Afghanistan ODI Series and 2023 Asia Cup: Babar Azam (capt), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Saud Shakeel (Afghanistan series only), Salman Ali Agha, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tayyab Tahir, Mohammad Haris (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jnr
