Wasim Akram urges fans to view India-Pakistan cricket matches as sports
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 5:21 PM
Last updated Sep 3, 2026
Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram has called on fans to stop viewing India-Pakistan matches through the lens of political or historical tensions. Speaking on a podcast, he emphasized that these encounters should be regarded only as sport, where wins and losses are expected outcomes. Akram reflected on his past mentorship of former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan, noting that the two maintained a positive relationship despite Pathan's frequent social media comments regarding Pakistan. While acknowledging the intensity of the rivalry, Akram expressed frustration with fans who continue to fuel online animosity. He encouraged supporters to move past historical grievances and treat the sport as a game rather than a battleground.
- •Wasim Akram describes India-Pakistan cricket as a game meant to be played without historical baggage.
- •Irfan Pathan sought bowling advice from Wasim Akram during a 2004 tour to Australia.
- •Irfan Pathan claimed 67 international wickets against Pakistan during his career.
- •Wasim Akram dismisses modern social media reactions as unproductive and reflective of an empty mind.
- 5:21 PMYahoo Sports — ‘It’s only a frikkin game’: Wasim Akram recalls helping Irfan Pathan before his anti-Pakistan posts
"Legendary cricketer Wasim Akram urges fans to leave past conflicts behind when it comes to cricket. He emphasises that the India-Pakistan rivalry should be viewed simply as a sport. Reflecting on his mentorship of Irfan Pathan, who admired his bowling style, Akram noted Pathan's impressive hat-trick against Pakistan. Ultimately, he reminded everyone that victories and defeats are part of the game, encouraging fans to let go of grudges.
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