“We’ll Miss Playing in India,” Says Pakistan’s Fakhar Zaman
Pakistani cricketer Fakhar Zaman has expressed appreciation for the hospitality his team received during the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup in India, while also lamenting the missed opportunity of playing future matches in the country. Speaking to Sports Talk, Zaman recalled the warm reception and overwhelming support Pakistan received, particularly during their visit to Hyderabad.
"We thoroughly enjoyed our time in India during the 2023 World Cup. The support and hospitality we received there are beyond words. When we first arrived in Hyderabad, the locals welcomed us with great warmth and showered us with love. We will surely miss that experience," Zaman said.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have recently decided that matches involving India and Pakistan, including the Champions Trophy 2025 and other fixtures until 2027, will be played at neutral venues. According to Zaman, the Indian team is set to play all its Champions Trophy matches in Dubai.
"Yes, we will miss playing in India. If the Indian team had visited Pakistan, we would have extended even greater hospitality to them. Unfortunately, that is not happening. Still, we look forward to competing with them in Dubai," he added.
India and Pakistan last played a bilateral series in 2012. Their next scheduled clash is set for February 23, 2025, during the Champions Trophy.
