'When your waiter says, 'Pakistan se nahi haarna'' - Kapil Dev opens up on pressure of India-Pakistan clash

Former India skipper Kapil Dev has shared his views on the pressure involved in an India-Pakistan match in the World Cup. The two nations do not engage in bilateral cricket owing to their strained political relations. Yet the fervor surrounding these matches remains as fierce as ever when it comes to multi-team events such as the Asia Cup and World Cups. Kapil Dev shed light on an intriguing facet of Indo-Pak cricket, offering insights into the origin of pressure in such high-stakes games.

During a conversation, Kapil was questioned about the 'excessive drama' and 'pressure' that encircle during India vs Pakistan matches. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain dispelled the notion that pressure solely emanates from on-field challenges.

"What is pressure? Pressure doesn't come when you're facing the ball. It starts building up when your waiter gives you coffee and says, "Pakistan se nahi haarna (don't lose to Pakistan). So that's how the build-up takes place," Kapil explained.

Asked whether he maintained friendships with any Pakistani cricketers from his era, Kapil candidly disclosed that time constraints made it difficult.

"I don't meet my own team members because I'm doing my own thing. I will ask you a similar question - are you in touch with all your school friends? Because we have drifted away or have our own life. How can I meet Imran Khan? He was the prime minister," he elaborated.

I want to meet Imran Khan: Kapil Dev

Kapil expressed his desire to engage in a conversation with former Pakistani cricketer Imran Khan but acknowledged that the latter's role as the Prime Minister didn't afford him the luxury of free time.

"While I would love to meet Imran Khan, does he have the luxury of ample free time? Just like many people aspire to spend time with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is it feasible for him to accommodate everyone? No," the legendary Indian cricketer concluded.

The much-awaited clash was scheduled on October 15 as per the original schedule, however, the date is set to be changed owing to the Hindu festival of Navratri starting the same day. The local police has expressed concerns regarding their ability to provide security for the high-stake clash. Meanwhile, BCCI secretary Jay Shah's remarks at the recent BCCI meet in Delhi reaffirmed those speculations as he stated that a few member boards have requested to alter the schedule and changes are expected to be made.