Credit: X
Former Indian batter Ajay Jadeja took a jibe at former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis while having a discussion on the Pakistan sports TV show "Dressing Room". While having a conversation on Afghanistan’s chances of making it to the knockouts of the Champions Trophy 2025, Jadeja drew Younis’ attention towards the bitter fact that the Afghan side have won more games than Pakistan in the previous three ICC tournaments which include Champions Trophy 2025, T20 World Cup 2024, and ODI World Cup 2023.
Pakistan, who are the hosts of this tournament, ended their journey in the group stage after losing to New Zealand and India. With this lack of success, Pakistan concluded their campaign in the first round of the ICC tournaments three consecutive times. Afghanistan have won 10 games thus far in ICC white-ball tournaments played since 2023 while the Men in Green have tasted victory in only six matches.
Afghanistan’s eight-run victory against England in the ongoing tournament impressed a lot of cricketing legends and Jadeja was another addition on the list. "They have won more games than your team, my friend, in ICC events. Anybody who thinks it's a one-off thing is fooling themselves," said Jadeja to Younis on the show.
Jadeja appreciates Afghanistan’s self-confidence
Jadeja hailed Afghanistan for their stellar level of confidence. He said Afghan players have amassed such confidence that they can rise from any situation and win games for their team by relying on their potential. Jadeja got support from former Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram, who was on the show with him. Akram showered praise for the Afghan team’s triumph over England and also said that the Asian side can defeat any team if they are at their best.
"The way they won that game against England... Ibrahim Zadran played so well after they lost early wickets and then to defend 320 with a wet ball was commendable. The ball was literally wet because of the dew. That will give them a lot of confidence. Yeah, Australia can make it one-sided, but if Afghanistan are on song, then they can beat any team in the world," said Akram.
