There's No Freedom In India - Abdul Razzaq On Tight Security For Pakistan Players

Former cricketer Abdul Razzaq expressed dissatisfaction with the security measures for the Pakistan players in India during the ICC World Cup 2023. Abdul Razzaq highlighted that the Pakistan cricketers don’t have the freedom to go outside and enjoy themselves.

The Pakistan team is under constant surveillance to ensure safety amid historical tensions and diplomatic issues with India as the BCCI implements security measures for players and officials. The players have had limited outings throughout the marquee tournament.

The Security In India Is Too Tight – Abdul Razzaq

Speaking to local news, Abdul Razzaq opened up about the tight security and restrictions imposed on Pakistani players, highlighting that these hinder their performance. Razzaq expressed concerns about the constraints faced by players during their stay in India.

“There is no freedom in India, you cannot go out of hotels and enjoy yourself. The security in India is too tight, and you are always stuck in hotels. A player needs freedom, and he cannot perform when there are so many restrictions on him,” said Razzaq, as quoted by a user on X (formerly known as Twitter).

India, South Africa, and Australia have clinched spots in the semi-finals. Pakistan currently stands in fifth place with 8 points, with four wins out of eight matches. The Babar Azam-led team is in contention for the semi-final race, but it appears to be tough for them.

That’s Been Tough And Stifling – Mickey Arthur

Earlier, Mickey Arthur stated similar sentiments, comparing the stringent security measures to the restrictions faced during COVID times. He emphasized the challenge of limited freedom for players who are accustomed to more flexibility and independence.

“What has been tough is the fact that we’ve been under a massive amount of security. And to be fair, I found it difficult. It’s almost like we’ve been back in the COVID times, where you were almost secluded to your floor and your team room,” Arthur said, as quoted by TOI.

“So much so that their breakfast is in a separate room to everybody else. Our boys are used to being on the road. But when they’re on the road, they’ve still been able to get out and have meals at different places, and get out on their own accord, and we haven’t been able to do this time. That’s been tough and stifling.”

The Babar Azam-led team will take on the England in their final league stage match at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday, November 11.

Also read: “Pakistan’s Number 1 Batter Is Fakhar Zaman, Not Babar Azam…”- Abdul Razzaq