'We also used to receive security threats from India...': Shahid Afridi's explosive comment on "Asia Cup" situation

• Image Credit: Google

• Mar 24, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Asia Cup 2023 will reportedly take place in a hybrid mode as the BCCI has denied the Indian cricket team's visit to Pakistan for any series or tournament...

Digital Desk: Asia Cup 2023 will reportedly take place in a hybrid mode as the BCCI has denied the Indian cricket team's visit to Pakistan for any series or tournament. As India and Pakistan are the two key Asian teams for the tournament, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has reportedly proposed a solution to save the iconic rivalry. According to ESPNCricInfo, the PCB has decided that all of Team India's Asia Cup matches will be played on neutral grounds, possibly in England or the UAE.

Statements on this topic are firing from both countries. Putting political differences aside, Pakistan wants India to visit the country for the matches. India, however, does not want to take any chances given the past security concerns. Many ex-Pakistan cricketers have recently stated, citing other teams such as Australia and England that have recently visited the country, that there is no security problem and that everything is under control.

Former Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi spoke in detail during Legends League cricket. While talking about the security problem, he stated that they had received security threats as well, but they never stopped visiting the country.

"As far as Pakistan's security is concerned, international teams have visited us. Players are still there, they are enjoying it a lot. We also used to receive security threats from India, but whenever the boards and governments were on the same page, the tour was on. If they don't, we are giving more leverage to those who want to spread hate, and those who don't want cricket to take place between the two countries", Afridi said while talking to Sports Yaari.

"I believe, and I've said this many times, that I've enjoyed cricket the most in two countries: Australia and India. I never anticipated to be so loved in India. We want to perform in India, and they want to see us play. Even here, there are many Indians in the throng who approach us and ask for autographs. Cricket is the greatest form of diplomacy. I want Pakistan and India to have good relations and grow in strength," he added.

The Asia Cup is set to take place in September, ahead of the ICC World Cup this year. It is worth noting that India and Pakistan will play each other twice in the tournament.