Babar Azam, captain of the Pakistan Cricket Team, was deeply moved by the warm reception and support they received from the Indian fans upon their arrival in India for the ICC World Cup 2023, scheduled to take place from October 5 to November 19.
On Wednesday night, amidst robust security measures, the Pakistan cricket squad touched down in Hyderabad. This marked their return to India after a seven-year hiatus, with the team arriving via Dubai.
Upon their arrival at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, both players and support personnel hopped onto a specially arranged bus. From there, they proceeded to their accommodations at a prominent hotel in the city.
Babar Azam took to his social media account and wrote, “Overwhelmed with the love and support here in Hyderabad.”
Babar Azam and some of his other players were observed at the airport, where they warmly greeted their supporters and talked with members of the media. Notably, security officers used the opportunity to snap memorable moments with the athletes on their cell phones.
Star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was observed engaged in an amicable talk with a police officer, showcasing the friendship between the team and the local authorities.
Adding to the warm welcome, Chaudhry Abdul Jalil, widely known as ‘Chacha’ and a legendary figure in Pakistan cricket fandom, was there at the airport to convey his sincere wishes to the squad.
This tour carries special significance since it marks the Pakistan cricket team’s return to India after a sabbatical of seven years, with their last participation in the country dating back to the 2016 T20 World Cup.
The team’s itinerary includes two practice matches in India, with their first two World Cup matchups slated to be staged in Hyderabad. The initial warm-up match is slated against New Zealand at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on September 29.
In consideration of the forthcoming Ganesh immersion procession, the Pakistani team has chosen to hold an optional practice session on Thursday, given the enormous scope of the occasion. Additionally, due to the Ganesh immersion and the Milad-un-Nabi procession taking place in the city, the local police have issued a request to organizers to minimize the presence of spectators at the stadium during the first warm-up match scheduled for Saturday.
The team’s World Cup trip will open with a game against the Netherlands on October 6, followed by a play against Sri Lanka on October 10. Subsequently, they will head to Ahmedabad for the much-anticipated clash versus India on October 14.
