Younis Khan urges players to focus on cricket, not politics

Former Pakistan Test captain and renowned batter Younis Khan has expressed displeasure over the national team’s performance, urging players to “stay away from politics and play for the team.”

He stressed that the Pakistan cricket team lacks consistency.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday night at the NIPA Sports Complex, Younis criticized the players for prioritizing personal goals over national pride.

“Don’t play for yourself, play for the country and the nation,” he said, adding that if pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi can showcase his batting skills, others should not find it difficult to step up.

He noted that Afridi has the potential to become a strong all-rounder.

Also Read: Abrar Ahmed enters ICC T20I top five for first time

Looking ahead to the Asia Cup, Younis said, “If Pakistan and India meet in the final, it will be thrilling. Prove your worth by winning and show that you are true sportsmen.”

The former captain warned against frequent changes in the playing XI, stressing that excessive experimentation hampers performance.

He praised India’s consistency, noting that their players “know their roles well” and that limited changes have been key to their success.

Commenting on the political undertones in cricket, Younis termed the refusal of Indian cricketers to shake hands with Pakistani players “against the spirit of sportsmanship.”

He said Indian players acted on their government’s instructions, adding, “If our government issues such directives, we too must comply. But win, and extend your hand first—prove that you are the better sportsmen.”

He further lauded senior batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan as talented cricketers and recalled his rewarding stint as Afghanistan’s batting consultant.

“I was respected greatly in the Afghan camp, and many of their players grew up under my guidance,” he said, stressing that no Asian team is permanently number one. “On the day, whichever team wins deserves the top spot.”