Introduction (Lead Paragraph)
Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has expressed disappointment over Afghanistan’s attitude toward Pakistan, saying the neighboring country has “forgotten the favors and support” it received from Pakistan over the years. His remarks have reignited discussion on the tense cricketing and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Afridi’s Statement Sparks Debate
In a recent interview with a local sports channel, Shahid Afridi criticized Afghanistan for showing “disrespect and hostility” toward Pakistan despite years of humanitarian assistance, education support, and sports cooperation.
“Afghanistan should remember how much Pakistan has done for them in difficult times — from hosting millions of refugees to supporting their cricket journey,” Afridi said. “Unfortunately, they seem to have forgotten those favors.”
His comments came in response to growing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan’s cricket boards and the heated behavior of Afghan players and fans during recent international matches.
Background: From Friendship to Friction
Pakistan has long played a crucial role in helping Afghanistan develop its cricket infrastructure. Many Afghan players, including Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, trained and played domestic cricket in Pakistan during the early years of their careers.
However, relations between the two countries — both in sports and politics — have deteriorated in recent years due to border disputes, political disagreements, and emotional on-field clashes.
Public and Media Reactions
Afridi’s remarks drew mixed reactions online. While many Pakistanis supported his stance, praising him for “speaking the truth,” others urged restraint, emphasizing that sports diplomacy should aim to rebuild goodwill between both nations.
Social media users in Afghanistan also reacted strongly, accusing Afridi of politicizing sports and overlooking recent cricket achievements by the Afghan team.
“Respect should be mutual,” said one Afghan journalist on X (formerly Twitter). “Both nations share history and sacrifices — not favors.”
Pakistan’s Role in Afghan Cricket
Pakistan has hosted several Afghan cricket camps in Lahore and Karachi in the past, providing training facilities and coaching support.
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) had also relied on Pakistan for logistical assistance and match venues before moving to Sharjah and Abu Dhabi as neutral grounds.
Afridi emphasized that Pakistan’s contributions were rooted in brotherhood, not politics, but said the recent hostility shown by Afghan players during bilateral matches was “deeply disappointing.”
Conclusion
Shahid Afridi’s comments highlight the strained ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan, extending beyond cricket into broader diplomatic sentiments. His call for mutual respect has once again opened debate on whether sports can still serve as a bridge of peace between the two neighbors.
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