India and Pakistan battle in the latest edition of the T20 World Cup in Colombo on Sunday. As excitement builds for another big match, political tensions have also come into focus. Yet former Pakistan captain and Asia’s Bradman, Zaheer Abbas, has urged that cricket should rise above politics. Remembering the yesteryears, Abbas, who batted with great artistry, recollected memories of tough matches which were followed by friendly moments between players from both countries.
Speaking exclusively to Sports Now, ahead of the latest edition in Colombo , Abbas made it amply clear that for him, cricket must remain separate from political tensions. “For me, the main thing is cricket, not politics. I am not involved in politics. My aim is to see cricket grow and spread all over the world,” Abbas said.
Much of the build-up this time has centred on Pakistan’s bowling combinations, particularly their spin attack, with Usman Tariq drawing attention. However, Abbas insisted performances ultimately depend on match situations.
“He is bowling well and doing fine. Ultimately, the batsmen have to decide how effective a bowler will be. It depends on the performance on the day, not just on the bowler,” Abbas said while assessing Pakistan’s bowling prospects.
He also acknowledged the quality on both sides, while admitting India currently looks stronger on paper. “Both sides are very good and very competitive. Whenever India and Pakistan play, emotions run very high. At the moment, India seems like the better side, but in T20 cricket, anything can happen. The game can turn either way very quickly,” he said.
Abbas also spoke about the ongoing debate over players not shaking hands after matches, saying cricket should always show mutual respect.
“I hope so. What is the problem with shaking hands? It shows friendliness. If we are playing together, we must at least be friendly enough to shake hands. Whoever wins, you shake hands because it is a game, not a fight. At the end of the day, it is just a game,” he said.
Reflecting on how players handled pressure in the past, Abbas suggested that handling expectations was part of becoming a successful cricketer. “Pressure is part of the game. If you are a good player, you have to handle it. Sometimes you are in form, sometimes not. When you are not in form, pressure increases, but your bat must speak for you on the field,” he explained. He also believes the rivalry has evolved with time and said, “The rivalry has become more professional now.”
On Pakistan’s traditional fast-bowling legacy, Abbas noted how T20 cricket has reshaped bowling roles. “Since T20 cricket started, fast bowling has changed. Earlier, we had bowlers like Imran Khan and others. Now teams rely more on a mix of medium pacers and spinners,” he said.
Perhaps Abbas’ most telling recollections came from stories about how Indian and Pakistani players became friends off the field during his era, as friendships flourished despite intense matches and even wars.
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
