'Overwhelmed with the love....' - Babar Azam expresses gratitude after heroic welcome in Hyderabad

Pakistan captain Babar Azam arrived in India with his team and support staff on Wednesday, September 27, to play in the upcoming ODI World Cup.

While coming out of the airport, Babar and his team were greeted by many fans. In an Instagram story, the talismanic right-handed batter has expressed his gratitude after receiving a warm welcome.

"Overwhelmed with the love and support here in Hyderabad," wrote Babar.

The political tension between India and Pakistan over the years is well-documented. The two teams don't face each other in bilateral series. There have been differences in opinions between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). However, there are cricket fans on both sides of the border who have great respect and admiration for players from their neighbouring countries.

A lot of Indians admired Imran Khan during his playing days, and years later, the flamboyant Shahid Afridi received a lot of love from the Indian fans. On the other hand, the likes of MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli have commendable fan-following in Pakistan.

Pakistan to play New Zealand in first warm-up game behind closed doors

Earlier this week, it was announced that Pakistan would play their first warm-up fixture against New Zealand on Friday, September 29, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium behind closed doors. This decision was taken after the local police couldn't ensure adequate security for the encounter. Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) informed BCCI about the predicament, and India's cricket governing body had no other choice but to continue with the fixture but in front of an empty stadium. The BCCI also informed the fans that the ones who had bought tickets for the match would receive a full refund.

Pakistan will play another warm-up game against Australia on October 3 at the same venue. The Men in Green begin their World Cup campaign on Friday, October 6, against the Netherlands in Hyderabad. The high-voltage India-Pakistan clash will be played on October 14 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.