Picture Credit: Twitter
Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Zaka Ashraf took a u-turn from his ‘dushman mulk’ remark against India. Ashraf had earlier referred to India as an enemy nation, which didn’t go well with both sides’ fans and Ashraf received heavy criticism for the same. Later, the PCB boss issued a clarification on the same as well as thanked the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 hosts for their warm welcome and hospitality of the Pakistan team.
Ashraf said that both India and Pakistan are traditional rivals on a cricket field and not enemies. In an official statement released by the Pakistan cricket governing body, the Chairman said, “The fantastic reception of the Pakistan men’s cricket 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.”
“Whenever India and Pakistan step onto the cricket field, they emerge as traditional rivals but not as enemies. Historically, whenever the Pakistan men’s cricket team has visited India, they have received a warm and cordial reception, just as Indian teams have been welcomed in Pakistan,” it further read.
The PCB boss was also heard stating, "We have awarded these contracts to our players with immense love and affection. Never before in Pakistan's history has such a substantial amount been allocated to players. My objective was to ensure that our players' morale remains high as they travel to compete in countries, including the so-called 'enemy country.”
Notably, the Pakistan cricket team arrived at the Hyderabad Airport on Wednesday, September 27, to participate in the World Cup 2023. A day after landing in India, Babar Azam and Co. played their first warm-up game against New Zealand but ended up losing the game against the Kiwis.
