Comment: Pakistan team arrives in India after 7 years for ICC Cricket World Cup

The Pakistan cricket team finally arrived in India after a long hiatus of seven years, receiving a resounding hero's welcome at Hyderabad Airport earlier in the week.

As the team disembarked from their aircraft, they were greeted by fans, further emphasising the importance of this sporting event in fostering goodwill and camaraderie.

The airport premises reverberated with cheers and applause, creating an unforgettable spectacle for the cricketing aficionados.

The atmosphere was electric as fans erupted with excitement, particularly for the World No.1 batter, Babar Azam, who became the centre of attention.

In a remarkable display of enthusiasm, the crowd went wild, showcasing their unwavering support for the superstars of the game.

The Pakistan men's cricket team arrived at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, from Dubai, to compete in the impending ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023.

As Babar Azam and his men arrived at their hotel, they were escorted by more than 20 security vehicles with fans cheering for them from the sidelines.

This momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the gentleman’s game of cricket.

The footage also shows Pakistani players dressed in white t-shirts and green waistcoats, graciously acknowledging the enthusiastic cheers of the exuberant crowd. Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, also joined in, waving and smiling at the eagerly awaiting spectators who longed for a glimpse of these cricketing icons.

One of the cops can also be seen sharing a laugh with Pakistan speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi.

As the players made their way from the airport to the awaiting bus, the ardent enthusiasm of the supporters, coupled with their resounding chants of "Babar Azam" "Mohammad Rizwzan" "Iftikhar Chacha" and "Shaheen Afridi," created an electrifying atmosphere.

The arrival of the Pakistan team has undoubtedly reignited the passion and fervour of cricket enthusiasts on both sides of the border. The Pakistan fans on social media have also thanked Indian fans for their heart-warming welcome of the neighbouring team.

The warm and enthusiastic reception has left the Pakistani players in awe, prompting them to express their gratitude on their respective social media platforms upon their arrival in India.

"Overwhelmed with the love and support here in Hyderabad," Azam said on Instagram.

Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan was also moved by the warm reception in Hyderabad.

"Amazing reception from the people here. Everything was super smooth. Looking forward to the next one and a half months," Rizwan posted on Instagram.

“Great welcome,” maintained Pakistan pacer Afridi.

The Hyderabad Airport authorities, in collaboration with local authorities, ensured a seamless and secure reception for the visiting team.

The warm reception extended to the players reflects the shared love for cricket that unites people across borders.

Babar Azam, a highly regarded cricketer known for his exceptional skills and sportsmanship, became the focal point of the fans' adoration. His presence ignited a wave of excitement, with supporters clamouring to catch a glimpse of their beloved idol.

The admiration and frenzy surrounding Babar Azam exemplify the immense impact he has had on the cricketing world.

The fans chanted Babar Azam’s name as he made entry into a hotel.

It is a reminder that, despite any differences, the love for the game transcends boundaries and brings people together.

Pakistan will play their first warm-up match against New Zealand behind closed doors on September 29 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad.

They will be up against Australia on October 3 in their last warm-up game.

On October 6, the Men in Green will begin their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands at the same venue.

Pakistan squad for ICC World Cup 2023: Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Shadab Khan (vc), Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, M Wasim Jnr, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha.

Travelling reserves: Mohammad Haris, Zaman Khan and Abrar Ahmad

By Tahir Ibn Manzoor

©Cricket World 2023