Pakistan Head Coach Saqlain Mushtaq talked about the viral image of Virat Kohli and Babar Azam meeting for a practice game in Dubai. The image was clicked when the two batsmen met for the first time in Dubai for their upcoming matches. India and Pakistan will play on 28th August on the second day of Asia Cup 2022.
Pakistan’s coach Saqlain Mushtaq talked about how the viral image of two legendary batsmen of both countries gives out a positive message. “Some years ago, I went to play in an All-Star Game. There were top 25 cricketers of the world and we were playing together. Sachin Tendulkar and Shane Warne got everyone together, that time around, I had put out a tweet. That match was being followed by just India and Pakistan cricket fans in America. Both Indian and Pakistan fans had stitched together flags and they were displaying it in Unison,” Saqlain said during a media interaction on Thursday.
The image of Virat and Babar got circulated around social media on Wednesday. “I had tweeted then that it is just not cricket and entertainment. It helps people understand so many things, it is bringing everyone together. When we play matches, emotions run high. But this game also helps in giving lessons about humanity. I think yesterday’s picture between Babar and Virat gives a good message.”
The Pakistani coach was also asked if Babar Azam eased tension around India-Pakistan. Saqlain answered, “ It is entertainment, it is a sport. The emotions run high, but at the end of the day, it is a sport. We are trying to spread the message of love and kindness. That is why players from both countries mingle with each other.”
Pakistan’s pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi will not be a part of Asia Cup 2022 due to an injury. Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, and Haris Rauf will take the place of the iconic bowler. Saqlain mentioned how these three are great the part. “For a very long time, these three have been executing the plans and requirements of the Pakistan cricket team. The captain and I as head coach have full confidence in them. There is no need to worry, Shaheen used to lead the attack but unfortunately, he is not here because of injury. They can change the game on their day.”
