As tensions rise between India and Pakistan, former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has issued a heartfelt appeal to keep politics out of sports, urging both nations to safeguard cricket from becoming collateral damage in geopolitical conflict.
In a public statement, Afridi emphasized that sports transcend national, religious, and political boundaries, and should serve as a force for unity, not division.
“Today, the game itself is under attack,” he said, lamenting the disruption of major cricketing events. “The PSL has been moved to Dubai, the IPL has been suspended, and now even stadiums are being drawn into conflict,” he added, referencing a reported drone incident near Rawalpindi Stadium.
Afridi expressed concern over how cricket—once a powerful symbol of regional connection—has now become entangled in hostilities. His comments follow a series of Indian drone incursions and escalating rhetoric from both sides of the border.
“Cricket used to connect us—now it’s under siege,” he remarked. In a pointed critique of Indian media, Afridi said, “Their coverage sounds more like Cartoon Network than journalism,” criticizing the sensationalism fueling public hostility.
Ending on a note of unity, Afridi appealed to citizens and leaders in both countries: “Don’t use the game as fuel for war. Let’s protect what unites us.”
