Virender Sehwag defends 'Bye Bye Pakistan' post after criticism

Following New Zealand's victory over Sri Lanka in the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag took a dig at Pakistan with a 'Bye Bye Pakistan' post and faced criticism for the same.

Taking to the social media platform, Sehwag justified his post by highlighting India's consistent performance in the World Cup and said that the Indian team have been qualifying to the semifinals of all the 50-over World Cup events except in 2007.

“In the 21st century, there have been 6 ODI world cups. In 6 attempts, only once in 2007 did we not qualify for the semi-finals and have qualified in 5 of the last 6 World Cups. On the other hand, only once have Pakistan qualified for the semis in 6 attempts in 2011. And they come up with ridiculous allegations blaming ICC and BCCI of changing balls and pitch,” Sehwag posted on ‘X’.

Sehwag also addressed off-field provocations by Pakistan, expressing his frustration with their behaviour.

“Their Prime Minister mocks us when we lose to another team despite having beaten them. Upon reaching here, their player posts pictures of enjoying tea in Hyderabad with sarcasm to mock our soldier. The PCB chief on camera refers to our country as Dushman Mulk. And they expect love for their hate. And those preaching class, that is a two-way street. Jo Achha vyavhar kare uske saath hum bahut hi achhe, aur jo aisa vyavhar kare toh sahi mauke par soot samet lautana is my way. On-field bhi, off-field bhi,” Sehwag added in his post.

Sehwag's other post where he advised Pakistan to have a safe flight back home, added fuel to the already intense cricketing rivalry. As Pakistan face a daunting task against England in their final group-stage game, Sehwag's comments reflect the prevailing tension in the cricketing world.

With India, Australia, and South Africa having secured their spots in the semi-finals, Pakistan's journey hang in the balance. Despite the odds, they cling to a slim mathematical hope, requiring an unbelievable performance against England to surpass New Zealand in the points table.