The Super Fours clash between Pakistan and India was more than just a battle between bat and ball. What caught the internet’s attention was the behavior of some Pakistan players labeled by experts as “immature,” and which also drew significant backlash online.
India went on to defeat Pakistan by 7 wickets in yet another one-sided contest. People talked about Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan's reactions more than the result of the match. Fans and cricket analysts both criticized their behavior on the field, calling it unnecessary, immature, and a sign that they were about to lose.
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Haris Rauf and Sahibzada Farhan Face Backlash
Ahead of Pakistan’s must-win clash against Bangladesh, pacer Shaheen Afridi addressed the controversy and defended his teammates.
“Look, our job is to play cricket. Honestly, everyone has the right to express the way they want to,” Shaheen said when asked about the criticism Haris and Sahibzada faced for their actions against India.
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Still, Shaheen took a neutral stance, emphasizing that the team’s focus is on their performance, not the drama.
“Everyone has their own thoughts. Everyone has their own respect. Everyone thinks the way they think. But our job is to play cricket. And we have come to win the Tri-Nation Series. We have come to win the Asia Cup. And we, God willing, as a team, are doing our best,” he added.
Shaheen Maintains Focus on Cricket and Team Goals
Looking ahead to a potential rematch against India in the Asia Cup 2025 final, Shaheen expressed confidence in Pakistan’s chances — if they make it to the final.
“They haven’t reached the final yet. We’ll see when they do. We’ve come here to win the final and win the Asia Cup. We’re ready for any team that comes. We will defeat them,” he said.
When asked about Pakistan’s poor record against big teams like India, Shaheen admitted the shortcomings but remained optimistic.
“Yes, we haven’t won against big teams. You could say we’ve grown in the rankings. But when you play against top teams, you have to win. And the teams that are coming now — we are competing against them,” he concluded.
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