CT triumph bigger than 1992 World Cup win: Aaqib Javed

For a long time, Pakistani cricket enthusiasts were deprived of glory and pride. The ‘once upon a time’ dominators had lost their sheen and it looked as if it is tough to regain the long lost prowess again. But under the strict guidance of head coach Mickey Arthur and the strong leadership of skipper Sarfraz Ahmed, the Men in Green are regaining lost territories.

Earlier this year, Sarfraz’s team became the first team from the nation to clinch the 8-team ICC Champions Trophy held in England. The ecstasy of the fans was a bit accelerated as they simply outplayed their rivals India in the finals. However, former Pakistani cricketer Aaqib Javed’s claim was a bit unexpected. The man from Sheikhupura, Punjab has claimed that Sarfraz’s Champions Trophy victory was even bigger than Pakistan;s World Cup triumph that came way back in 1992.

While talking to The Nation, the vital cog of Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup winning team said “For the last several years, international cricket is not being played in Pakistan, but the Champions Trophy meant a lot to Pakistan. Trust me, being a member of 1992 World Cup winning squad, I can easily claim that Champions Trophy has a greater impact on Pakistan keeping in mind prevailing circumstances. Pakistan cricket needs a rivalry to keep the hopes of the entire nation alive and nothing can satisfy the Pakistani nation than playing the big final against arch-rivals India and winning it was the historic achievement.”

Referring to the regained supremacy and recognition from other top-notch sides, he further went on “That fear factor was missing since long, but Pakistani players not only managed to revive that factor but also completely outclassed Indians in every department of the game. Cricket is changing fast and one has to adapt the fast changing scenario to keep the spectators’ interest in the game. I can easily claim that T20 is future of cricket, as people don’t have time to watch Test cricket or even One-Day Internationals, as it also takes almost the entire day but T20 is gaining popularity with each passing day.”

Lankans proved they are true friends

With the World XI tour scheduled later this month, international cricket is finally coming back to the cricket crazy nation. After that tour, the Sri Lankan team will be touring Pakistan. Javed feels it is a highly laudable gesture by the Lankans. “I must give credit to Sri Lankan Board for again helping Pakistan cricket, as I was on the bus when Sri Lankan team was attacked in Lahore in 2009. I saw Sri Lankan players got injured, and it is very kind of them for sending their team to Pakistan. It is a highly laudable gesture by the Lankan team and board. Pakistan also helped Sri Lankans and others during hard times, but Lankans also proved that they are true friends,” said the owner of over 2oo international wickets.