After India’s T20 World Cup 2026 victory, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has shared an interesting anecdote related to the 2011 World Cup. Afridi told that when the semi-final of 2011 ODI World Cup was played between India and Pakistan, the noise of the Indian fans on the Mohali ground was so much that some Pakistani batsmen came under pressure and were trembling.
An atmosphere of pressure was created in Mohali
This match was played in the semi-finals of the 2011 World Cup. The match took place at Punjab Cricket Association, Mohali. At that time Afridi was the captain of Pakistan team. Afridi told in a TV interview that the beginning of the match was very good for Pakistan. Openers Mohammad Hafeez and Kamran Akmal had made a partnership of around 90 runs and the team looked to be in good shape. At that time he felt that Pakistan could win the match.
The atmosphere changed after the first wicket
According to Afridi, as soon as the first wicket fell, the atmosphere on the field changed completely. The noise of the Indian spectators present in the stadium became so loud that the pressure on the batsmen started increasing. He said that the Indian team was getting so much energy from the fans that the players came on the field with more enthusiasm. On the other hand, some Pakistani players got nervous in that environment and started feeling pressure while batting.
Told the role of fans is important
Afridi believes that the role of the Indian audience was very important in that match. He said that when thousands of people support their team together in the stadium, it definitely impacts the players. Afridi also said that as captain, he was sitting on the field feeling how the pressure was increasing with every ball.
Pakistani veterans praised India
Meanwhile, many former cricketers of Pakistan have also praised India’s victory in the T20 World Cup 2026. Former Pakistan captain Javed Miandad said that the strong structure of Indian cricket is the biggest reason for its success. He says that India is continuously producing new and talented players. Batting, spin and fast bowling – the team has good options in every department. This is the reason why the Indian team is continuously performing well in big tournaments.
