PAK vs ENG: "If You Want To Become Heroes, Lift The World Cup Trophy At Wankhede Stadium": Shoaib Akhtar To Pakistan Team

Shoaib Akhtar, a former fast bowler, issued a challenge to Pakistan’s cricket squad, urging them to take home the ODI World Cup trophy in India the next year. After losing to England on November 13 in the T20 World Cup 2022 title game, he urged the players to get back up and try their best to win the trophy in India in 2023.

Pakistan was defeated by England by five wickets in the final match of this year’s T20 World Cup at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). After being put in to bat after losing the toss, they only managed 137/8 in 20 overs. England completed the chase in 19 overs.

In response to Pakistan’s setback, the “Rawalpindi Express” advised the players to move past their disappointment over the MCG defeat and get serious about preparing for the ODI World Cup in India.

Shoaib Akhtar posted a heartfelt message to the group on his YouTube page and stated:

“Next year, there is a World Cup in India. If you want to become heroes, lift the World Cup trophy at Wankhede Stadium. This is a challenge for you. Go and get fit. Pick yourself up and ensure that the next World Cup is ours” Shoaib Akhtar said.

For the first time, India will serve as the lone host nation for the ODI World Cup in 2023. In 1987, 1996, and 2011, they served as the event’s host nation, but each time, additional nations served as co-hosts.

Shoaib Akhtar praises Pakistan despite the defeat:

In discussing Pakistan’s loss to England in the T20 World Cup final, Akhtar refrained from criticizing the group.

Shoaib Akhtar commended Babar Azam and the rest of the team for bouncing back from a poor start to make it all the way to the championship game. Akhtar commented:

“Congratulations, Pakistan.” You came from nowhere to reach the World Cup final. You played some excellent cricket in the final leg. It is unnecessary to criticize anyone. Playing in the World Cup final is no small feat. And they didn’t get there by chance. They worked quite hard and performed admirably.”

Afridi and Shadab each grabbed 11 wickets, making significant contributions to Pakistan’s remarkable comeback in the T20 World Cup.

Also Read: PAK vs ENG: Shaheen Afridi’s Injury During The T20 World Cup Final Would Not Have Changed Pakistan’s Outcome: Sunil Gavaskar