Pakistan’s participation in the high-voltage ODI WC 2023 is quite uncertain. Misbah-ul-Haq feels that it will be a huge loss for the cricket fraternity if India & Pakistan don’t play against each other. Misbah-ul-Haq also stated that Pakistan loves playing in India against massive crowds and backed the team to perform well.
The ongoing tussle between BCCI and PCB, on letting the teams go to the enemy land to play the prestigious tournaments, i.e. Asia Cup and ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, due to India’s reluctance to travel to Pakistan which forced the Asia Cup to be played in a hybrid mode from 31 August to September 17.
Pakistan has the capability to do well in Indian conditions
The former Pakistani Captain & Coach Misbah-ul-Haq recently spoke on the matter at an event function, Misbah-ul-haq said that cricket should n0t be linked with political relations. Misbah-ul-Haq said that the crowds in India bring the best out of their team.
“When there can be contacts between the two countries in other sports, why not in cricket. Why link cricket with political relations? It is unfair to deprive people of a chance to see their teams play against each other,” said Misbah-ul-Haq.
“It is great injustice to the fans who follow Pakistan and Indian cricket a lot. Certainly Pakistan should be playing in the World Cup even in India, The many times I have played in India, we have enjoyed the pressure and crowds there. Because it gives you motivation and conditions in India suit us. Our team has the capability to do well in Indian conditions.” he added.
Shahid Afridi in favor and Javed Miandad raises red flag
Misbah’s statement was supported well by the “Lala” Shahid Afridi, as he believes that hat Pakistan had got good venues for their World Cup matches and planning properly would suit their World cup chances after 1991.
“We have a very good side and some outstanding talent and I don’t see any reason why we can’t go to India and do well there even if we play at Narendra Modi Stadium,” said Shahid Afridi.
However, the likes of Javed Miandad raises his concerns as he believes that Pakistani team should not go to Indian soil unless the latter will visit Pakistan.
“We should refuse to go to India, until they don’t visit. Pakistan should not live in their fear. India were supposed to come and play in Pakistan,” said Javed Miandad.
What will happen to Pakistan’s WC’ campaign if they don’t come
According the the clause mentioned in ICC’s rulebook, if any team boycotted an ICC event or withdraws their name, they will be automatically removed from the tournament and can face a serious ban from international cricket.