Pakistani fans leave with a heavy heart, wish India luck

When the border gates opened at 10 am, families and fans of the Pakistan cricket team took their leave minus Wednesday’s swagger, but with good wishes for Team India’s big match on Saturday. Aseem Bassi reports.

When the border gates opened at 10 am, families and fans of the Pakistan cricket team took their leave minus Wednesday’s swagger, but with good wishes for Team India’s big match on Saturday.

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Mohammad Akmal Sadiq, father of cricketers Umar and Kamran Akmal, said, “It was not the Pakistan team’s day. I don’t want to comment on the performance of my sons but I wish and pray that now that India has entered the final it must win the World Cup.” His other two sons Rehman and Adnan were, however, too glum to talk.

Former Pakistan MP, Rai Aziz Ullah said, “There were some weak links that led to the defeat of Pakistan. People do get angry when things like this happen but they should not be harsh.”

Ex-external affairs minister of Pakistan, Khurshid Kasuri felt the Pakistan team could have done better, but hoped that cricket diplomacy would bring good results.

Wahab Riaz’s younger brother Ahsan said, “I am happy that my brother took five wickets but losing was a big disappointment.”

Returning home to Lahore around noon, Mohammad Hashim said, “We were expecting a lot, but batsmen like Misbah-ul-Haq and Younus Khan couldn’t come out with their best.”

Going home with mixed feelings, Salim Hemani said, “The Pakistani team played brilliantly to reach the semi finals. We wish India best of luck and would like to see our neighbours grab the trophy.”