The India vs Pakistan 2026 T20 World Cup controversy is finally over. After the Pakistan government gave the green signal to the national cricket team to play against India. Although the cricketers of India and Pakistan had a good relationship on and off the field, but now the situation has changed after the Pahalgam terror attack. Things have fallen apart with the Indian players refusing to shake hands with the players.
Pakistan’s former World Cup winner Saqlain Mushtaq has shared his views on the ongoing fiasco, as the spinner was part of the epic India vs Pakistan rivalry, where Wasim Akram, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Saeed Anwar and others shared a bond of mutual respect with Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, Ajay Jadeja and Rahul Dravid.
Saqlain Mushtaq feels India vs Pakistan rivalry has fallen apart
The India–Pakistan rivalry over the years has been filled with off-field friendships. From Javed Miandad playing Holi with Sunil Gavaskar to Virat Kohli hugging Mohammad Rizwan after Pakistan defeated India for the first time in a World Cup match, it was worth watching. Even Shaheen Shah Afridi sent Jasprit Bumrah a gift when his son was born. However, things have changed in recent times.
Speaking on the show ‘Game On’, Saqlain Mushtaq said, “I don’t think about those things [the old spirit of the game] Coming back because things have gone too far. On the other hand, they don’t want it to come back; He has kept it this way specifically to shine his politics and will continue to do so in future also.”
Saqlain Mushtaq was surprised to see former Indian cricketers criticizing Pakistan for its T20 World Cup stance. Hatred between them has increased after the incidents of Pulwama in 2019 and Pahalgam in 2025.
“Recently, a former cricketer – I won’t name him because it doesn’t feel right – was asked how Pakistan is talking about its integrity and honour,” the former Pakistani spinner said.
Politics has taken over cricket
He replied, “Look, before I speak, how can someone who has no respect to begin with talk about respect? I mean, use some common sense! What kind of narrow-minded things are you saying? You are a former cricketer. Players are considered heroes and stars, and stars shine for everyone. Heroes belong to everyone. At least try to act like a hero.”
Saqlain Mushtaq said, “Politicians are doing what they do – they are playing their politics. But you guys.” [former cricketers] One should not talk like this. Don’t you understand? When you hit a four or take a wicket, everyone claps – from this side and that side. You don’t seem to understand this. I say they need some sense on the other side of the border; He should speak a little more intelligently.”
India dominates Pakistan
Saqlain Mushtaq finally said, “Even the big former cricketers out there are saying such strange things and spreading hatred. They don’t understand the purpose of this game. Cricket gives the message of peace and unity.”
India vs Pakistan generates the most revenue for the ICC as it makes double the money from sponsorships, broadcast rights and ticket sales. The India vs Pakistan rivalry has been one-sided in recent times as the Men in Green are without a win in their last five meetings against their arch-rivals in all competitions.
Also read: India vs Pakistan drama: BCCI breaks silence after Pakistan government backtracks on T20 World Cup boycott
