- Mickey Arthur voiced his disappointment during the post-match press conference following Pakistan’s seven-wicket loss to India
- Arthur pointed out the absence of Pakistani fans in the stadium, emphasizing his disappointment
- Akram emphasized the need to concentrate on the core aspects of cricket and preparation, rather than attributing the defeat to external factors
After India’s victory over Pakistan with seven wickets in hand, the post-match press conference took an unexpected turn when Mickey Arthur, the former Pakistan coach, took a daring stance and aimed a challenge at the Indian cricket board.
Arthur expressed his disappointment, remarking that the match resembled more of a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) event than an International Cricket Council (ICC) one. He pointed out the absence of Pakistani fans in the stands, and his dismay at the absence of supporters in a match of this magnitude.
He went on to say that the iconic “Dil Dil Pakistan” anthem barely echoed through the stadium, suggesting that it felt more like a bilateral series between India and Pakistan rather than an international game. While he stated that he wouldn’t use these factors as excuses for Pakistan’s defeat, he noted that such circumstances could have an impact on the players and the overall experience.
In response, Wasim Akram, the legendary former Pakistan cricketer, was less than pleased with Mickey Arthur’s comments. Akram challenged Arthur, asking for details about Pakistan’s preparation for the match against Kuldeep Yadav, the Indian bowler. He called for a focus on the core cricketing aspects rather than distractions, asserting that such excuses wouldn’t pass.
Akram’s direct and no-nonsense response to Arthur, highlighting the intense emotions and high-stakes nature of India vs. Pakistan clashes in the cricketing world.
