In a pointed reply that stirred up old memories for Pakistani cricket fans, former Indian batter Suresh Raina reminded a Pakistani journalist of India’s memorable 2011 World Cup semi-final victory over Pakistan in Mohali. The exchange began when the journalist mocked Raina, noting that while former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi was named an ambassador for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Raina had not received such an honour.
This taunt followed Raina’s commentary on JioCinema, where he had mentioned Afridi’s multiple retirements from international cricket. During the Qualifier 1 match between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Ahmedabad, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra asked Raina if he had any plans to come out of retirement. Raina responded with a humorous jab, “Suresh Raina hu, Shahid Afridi nahi” (I am Suresh Raina, not Shahid Afridi).
Seizing the moment, a Pakistani journalist took a swipe at Raina on social media. “ICC has named Shahid Afridi as an ambassador for ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Hello Suresh Raina?” the post read on X.
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Raina, quick to respond, rekindled memories of the intense India-Pakistan rivalry. “I’m not an ICC ambassador, but I have the 2011 World Cup at my house. Remember the game at Mohali? Hope it brings back some unforgettable memories for you,” Raina replied.
I’m not an ICC ambassador, but I have the 2011 World Cup at my house. Remember the game at Mohali? Hope it brings back some unforgettable memories for you. https://t.co/5H3zIGmS33
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) May 24, 2024
Suresh Raina’s retort referenced his crucial 36-run knock-off 39 balls that helped India post a match-winning 260/9 against Pakistan in that iconic World Cup 2011 semi-final in Mohali. India triumphed by 29 runs in that match and went on to lift their second World Cup trophy.
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The upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 will see India and Pakistan face off on June 9 in a group stage match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York. This highly anticipated clash is expected to draw significant attention, reigniting one of cricket’s most storied rivalries. Fans on both sides are already buzzing with excitement, eagerly waiting to see who will emerge victorious in this latest chapter of their fierce competition.
