In the midst of the ongoing controversy regarding the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, former Pakistani captain Shahid Afridi has made a statement. Afridi posted on social media platform X, expressing that he places cricket above politics, yet he stands by the Pakistani government's decision.
The Pakistani government approved their team's travel to Sri Lanka for the T20 World Cup but decided not to participate in the group match against India. Shahid Afridi wrote that he has always believed that cricket can open doors that politics shuts. However, he also acknowledged that not playing against India is unfortunate.
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In his post, Shahid Afridi also raised questions about the International Cricket Council (ICC). He stated that this is not just a time for statements, but a time to show leadership through decisions. Afridi wrote that the ICC must prove that it is fair, independent, and equal for all member countries. His statement comes at a time when the ICC is considering a strong response to Pakistan's decision.
Afridi notes, 'I have always believed that when politics closes doors, cricket can open new pathways. It is regrettable that Pakistan will not play against India in the T20 World Cup, yet I support our government's decision. This is not just a time for the ICC to lead through words, but to demonstrate through actions that it is fair, independent, and just towards every member.'
Source: aajtak
This statement by Shahid Afridi is considered significant as many former Pakistani cricket players appear divided over the decision to not play against India. While a few former players criticize this move, prominent figures like Afridi openly stand with the government.
The ICC has already expressed concern about this issue. The ICC stated that selective participation is not in the interest of global cricket. Meanwhile, there has been no detailed official response from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi so far.
The boycott of the match against India is no longer just an issue of a single game. This matter is now directly linked to the ICC's credibility, the future of Pakistani cricket, and the global politics of cricket. Shahid Afridi's statement is seen as potentially inflaming the controversy further.
