In the world of cricket, few rivalries are as intense and passionately followed as the one between India and Pakistan. Every match between these two cricketing giants is not just a sporting event; it’s a spectacle that transcends boundaries. Recently, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Zaka Ashraf found himself in the midst of a controversy regarding his comments about India, just ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
A video clip had gone viral on social media, featuring Zaka Ashraf using the term “dushman mulk” or “enemy country” in reference to India while discussing new contracts for Pakistani players. This statement understandably sparked outrage among cricket fans on both sides of the border.
In the viral video, Ashraf said, “We gave these contracts to our players with love and affection. Never in the history of Pakistan such an amount of money has been given to players. I aimed to keep the players’ morale high as they go to countries, the enemy country (‘Dushman Mulk’) for competitions.”
However, in a statement released by the PCB, Zaka Ashraf clarified his stance. He emphasized that his comments were taken out of context and that he referred to India as a “traditional rival” and not an “enemy.”
Ashraf lauded the fantastic reception that the Pakistan cricket team received upon arriving in Hyderabad, India. The team’s arrival at Hyderabad Airport for the ICC ODI World Cup was met with warmth and hospitality. In the statement, Ashraf acknowledged the profound love that the people of both countries have for each other’s players.
“The fantastic reception of the Pakistan team in India for the World Cup proves how much love the people of both countries have for each other’s players. This love was evident by the reception arranged at the Hyderabad airport. I congratulate the Indians for arranging a reception of this kind,” Ashraf said, as quoted from Pakistan Cricket.
He further reiterated that when India and Pakistan face off on the cricket field, it’s a rivalry born out of respect for each other’s cricketing prowess, not enmity. Historical instances of warm welcomes for Pakistani teams in India and vice versa were highlighted.
“Whenever India and Pakistan step onto the cricket field, they emerge as traditional rivals but not as enemies. I hope that throughout the entire World Cup, Pakistan cricketers will receive the same warmth, and Indian fans will get to see the best cricket from Pakistan players,” Ashraf added.
As the 2023 World Cup approaches, both teams have their eyes set on the coveted title. Pakistan is eager to secure their second ODI World Cup, while India aims for their third. These aspirations reflect the competitive spirit that drives this storied rivalry.
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The controversy arose from a contentious video where Ashraf was heard explaining the rationale behind awarding substantial contracts to Pakistani players. He clarified that this move was made to boost the players’ morale as they represent their nation in various countries, including what some might term the “enemy country.”
In a press release released by the PCB, Zaka expressed his desire for the resumption of bilateral series between both countries which read, “He expressed his desire for the restoration of bilateral cricketing relations between the two countries, allowing millions of cricket fans from both nations the opportunity to watch these players perform live. He concluded by expressing his hope that the Indian cricket team would also visit Pakistan soon, enabling Pakistan to reciprocate the warmth and love shown by India to the Pakistan cricket team.”
The stage is set for an exciting start to the 2023 World Cup, as Pakistan is scheduled to face the Netherlands on October 6 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. This match promises to be a thrilling encounter and a testament to the enduring spirit of cricket that transcends borders.
