The Pakistan cricket team recently arrived in India after a gap of seven years, ahead of the Cricket World Cup 2023. The team received a warm welcome in Hyderabad, with fans gathering at the airport to catch a glimpse of their favorite cricketers. Many individuals took to social media to express their excitement and emotions about the overwhelming reception.
Due to the absence of bilateral series between India and Pakistan for almost a decade, matches between the two teams in international or continental tournaments are highly anticipated by cricket fans. As the cricketers began their practice sessions for the upcoming Cricket World Cup warm-up games, fans once again showed their unwavering support.
“We expected people to turn up at the ground, but we never anticipated such a heartfelt welcome at the airport. The fans had lined up for the team, and it was truly wonderful and emotional for both the players and the fans,” revealed a source from the team.
Despite arriving less than 48 hours before their opening warm-up fixture against New Zealand on Friday, the Pakistan team showed their commitment and determination. A significant number of players, including two traveling reserves, attended the optional training session held at the ground.
Star batsmen Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed were among the first to step into the nets, facing the bowling of Shaheen Afridi and the fit-again Haris Rauf. Haris Rauf, who hadn’t bowled since the game against India in the Asia Cup on September 10, showcased his skills. Additionally, the experienced Hasan Ali, making a comeback after Naseem Shah’s injury, trained under the guidance of bowling coach Morne Morkel. The pace trio seemed in high spirits, as they shared laughter and banter with the local association’s net bowlers.
It is evident that the anticipation and excitement surrounding matches between India and Pakistan continue to captivate cricket enthusiasts. The Pakistan cricket team’s arrival in India has not only delighted fans but also rekindled the spirit of cricketing rivalry between the two nations.