When India takes on England in the second semi-final of the 20-20 World Cup in Adelaide, it will be backed by an unlikely source: Pakistani former players and fans. Even before Pakistan defeated New Zealand in the first semifinal on Wednesday in Sydney, the main topic of conversation among cricket fans here was whether the two arch-rivals would meet in the finals.
Given the history of rivalry between the two cricket-crazed nations, as well as the current tense political relations between them, support for Rohit Sharma and his men is unusual. Former Test captain Shahid Afridi said a Pakistan-India final at the MCG on Sunday would be a dream come true.
Despite the intense rivalry, former Test spinner Iqbal Qasim said there was always a healthy respect for each other’s cricket history and performances. “I will also support India to beat England because there is nothing like a match between the two countries and I should know as I have played in some of them,” he said. He believes that even the Apex Cricket Council would be hoping for a Pakistan-India final.
Would be lovely to see a Pakistan vs India final: Rashid Latif
Former Pakistan Test captain Rashid Latif noted that India had a good recent track record against England in white-ball formats, including a T20 series victory in England. “Both teams are strong outfits with some very quality players. But how Virat Kohli and Suryakumar fare will to my mind be the key to a possible India win. England remains a very dangerous side but would be lovely to see a Pakistan vs India final,” he said.
Cricket historian and analyst Nauman Niaz, who previously ran the state-owned Pakistan Television Network’s sports channel, agreed. He stated that nothing in sports is more important to broadcasters and sponsors than a Pakistan-India final. “England are a classy side and it will be a tough one for India but yes I will support Rohit and his players to pull off a win,” Niaz said.
