Shahid Afridi Claims Pakistan’s Bus Was Attacked in India: Backs Team’s Travel for World Cup
Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has made a big claim, stating that their team bus was pelted with stones after they emerged victorious in the Test match against India in Bengaluru back in 2005. Afridi expressed his support for the Pakistan cricket team to travel to India for the upcoming 2023 World Cup, emphasizing the importance of facing pressure and performing well under challenging circumstances.
Speaking at an event where he shared the stage with fellow cricketer Abdul Razzaq, Afridi recounted the incident of their bus being attacked in Bangalore. He described it as a defining moment for the team, as despite their success on the field, their achievements were greeted with silence instead of applause. The stones hurled at their bus served as a stark reminder of the hostility they faced during their visit to India.
Afridi firmly believes that pressure is an integral part of the game and should be embraced rather than feared. Contrary to some players’ suggestions that Pakistan should avoid traveling to India, Afridi expressed his strong opposition to such a stance. Instead, he advocated for the Pakistan team to face the challenge head-on and secure victory in the match.
That was a pressure moment for us. We used to hit sixes and fours, and no one used to clap for us. If Abdul Razzaq remembers, when we won the Test match in Bangalore, stones were pelted on our bus. Pressure is always there, and you should enjoy that pressure. Players are saying that Pakistan should not go to India. I am totally against it; I think we should go there and win the match, Afridi stated.
Afridi’s comments shed light on the intense rivalry between the two nations on the cricket field and the passionate emotions it evokes among fans. Despite the past incidents of hostility, Afridi believes that cricket can bridge the divide and provide an opportunity for camaraderie between the players and the nations.
The upcoming 2023 World Cup is scheduled to be held in India, and Afridi’s endorsement of Pakistan’s participation carries considerable weight. While the decision ultimately rests with the cricket authorities, Afridi’s words reflect his determination and confidence in the team’s abilities to perform under pressure and succeed on the international stage.
The claim made by Afridi regarding the bus attack in 2005 adds another layer of complexity to the already intense cricketing rivalry between India and Pakistan. Such incidents highlight the need for improved sportsmanship and respect among fans, irrespective of their loyalties.
Afridi’s call to embrace pressure and overcome challenges is a reminder of the mental resilience required in high-stakes tournaments like the World Cup. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits the upcoming tournament, it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds and whether Pakistan will indeed travel to India to compete for the coveted trophy.
In conclusion, Shahid Afridi’s claim about their team bus being attacked in India after a Test match victory highlights the intense rivalry and passionate emotions associated with India-Pakistan cricket matches. Afridi’s support for Pakistan’s participation in the 2023 World Cup shows his belief in the team’s abilities to triumph over adversity. As tensions persist, it is crucial to prioritize sportsmanship and mutual respect for a more harmonious cricketing experience.
