When ex-Pakistani cricket players Shahid Afridi and Wasim Akram made controversial comments about Indian cricket and the IPL, it caused a new storm on social media. Their words have brought up an old argument again: why do former Pakistan players often talk about Indian cricket, the players, and the leagues? The problem has gotten worse because of the current India–Pakistan geopolitical tensions, and even comments about sports have political meaning.
Wasim Akram’s IPL Jab Gets Reactions
Wasim Akram, seen as one of the best fast bowlers in cricket history, recently took a pretty indirect shot at the Indian Premier League (IPL). This led to a lot of reactions from fans and experts.
Akram: “PSL lasts for 34 days, or a little more next year. That’s the best thing about it.” Other leagues are three months long, but this one isn’t. “Bachay baray ho jatay hain, woh league kabhi khatam nahi hoti.”
The line was taken as a straight shot at the IPL’s longer format, which made people wonder why Pakistani veterans keep comparing the PSL and IPL when they are so different in terms of size, money, popularity, and global impact.
Many Indian fans said that the IPL’s success is because of India’s stable cricket environment. In contrast, Pakistan’s cricket environment lacks security because of politics and the economy. It was also noted by critics that Pakistani players are not allowed to play in the IPL for political reasons, so it seems unnecessary to make so many similarities.
Shahid Afridi Supports Kohli and Rohit but Attacks Gambhir
Shahid Afridi, who is known for being blunt, defended Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma when he hit back at Gautam Gambhir over his recent comments.
In an effort to counter Gambhir’s stronger arguments, Afridi said the pair is still the “backbone of Indian batting.”
A lot of people liked how Afridi recognised India’s famous players, but others wondered why he always has to put his two cents in on Indian cricket debates, especially since Indian players don’t usually do the same for Pakistan’s cricket arguments.
Geopolitical Shadow: Not Only Cricket
Geopolitical strife, limited sporting ties, and bad bilateral relations have a big impact on the India–Pakistan cricket divide. Since the two countries don’t play bilateral series anymore, Pakistani players often use Indian cricket talks to stay relevant in global news.
Experts say that when people talk about the IPL or Indian players, it helps Pakistani bowlers get attention that they don’t get from their own country’s cricket.
Also, because Pakistani players can’t play in the IPL, comments, comparisons, and criticism often show how people feel, whether they mean to or not.
