As hostilities simmer between India and Pakistan, former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has broken his silence with a powerful appeal for peace.
In a statement, Afridi stressed that sports transcend borders, religion, and politics, and must not be used to escalate conflict.
“Today, the game itself is under attack,” said Afridi, lamenting the recent disruptions in regional cricket. “The PSL has been moved to Dubai, the IPL has been suspended, and now even stadiums are becoming targets.” He was referring to a reported drone incident near Rawalpindi Stadium, which he believes highlights how cricket, once a bridge between nations, is now caught in the crossfire.
Afridi’s remarks come amid increasing tension, sparked by Indian drone incursions and retaliatory warnings from Pakistani officials. While the political rhetoric intensifies, Afridi clarified that cricket must not become a casualty of war.
“Cricket used to connect us — today, it’s under siege,” he said. Taking a swipe at the Indian media, Afridi commented, “Their coverage sounds more like Cartoon Network than serious journalism,” underscoring the sensationalist tone often seen in cross-border narratives.
Ending on a hopeful note, Afridi called on leaders and citizens alike to resist turning sports into a battleground. “Don’t use the game as fuel for war. Let’s protect what unites us.”
