I like India: Brett Lee reacts to India-Pakistan champions conflict cancellation
Former Australian quick bowler Brett Lee has weighed in on the cancellation of the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan fixture on the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL), calling the state of affairs “robust” whereas emphasising the significance of mutual respect and inclusivity in world sport.
The India vs Pakistan WCL conflict, scheduled to happen at Edgbaston in Birmingham, was known as off after a number of former Indian cricketers reportedly refused to participate. Their determination got here within the wake of the heinous terror assault on vacationers in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on 22 April-an incident that additional strained already delicate ties between India and Pakistan.
Talking at a press convention whereas representing the Australia Champions aspect, Lee acknowledged the complexity of the state of affairs however maintained a impartial and respectful tone.
“That may be a robust quesion. However the factor I will say proper is, I like India, I like Pakistan. So I hope that they’ll get to a discretion the place they’ll recognize themselves. However most significantly, we’re right here on a event. So Australia versus India versus South Africa. We’re all inclusive. So what occurred final night time is what occurred. We pushed for it,” Lee, who’s representing Australia Champions, informed reporters in a press convention.
The WCL, in its official assertion, revealed that the India-Pakistan fixture was deliberate with the intention of fostering goodwill-drawing inspiration from a current volleyball match between the 2 nations. Nonetheless, the transfer drew backlash, notably from the Indian contingent, prompting the organisers to cancel the match. The WCL additionally issued an apology for any misery or discomfort the announcement might have triggered, admitting it might have misjudged the emotional local weather.
India Champions skipper Shikhar Dhawan later clarified that the choice to not play Pakistan had been communicated to the organisers properly upfront. Sharing an electronic mail dated 11 Might, Dhawan reiterated his stance in a publish on X:
“Jo kadam 11 Might ko liya, uspe aaj bhi waise hello khada hoon. Mera desh mere liye sab kuch hai, aur desh se badhkar kuch nahi hota.”
(I stand by the choice I took on 11 Might. My nation means every thing to me, and nothing is extra vital than the nation.)
India Champions, who lifted the WCL title final 12 months, had crushed Pakistan within the closing with a commanding five-wicket victory. Chasing 157, the Indian aspect delivered a strong batting efficiency to seal the win and elevate the trophy.
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