'Great welcome thus far' - Shaheen Afridi appreciates warm reception given by Indian fans post Pakistan team's arrival in Hyderabad

The excitement is building as Pakistan's cricket team, led by captain Babar Azam, arrives in India to participate in the highly anticipated World Cup 2023, set to kick off from October 5 to November 19. The team's arrival was met with tight security measures, emphasizing the importance of this cricketing event. Pakistani team received a grand reception upon their arrival in India. They landed at the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, in Hyderabad, and fans and supporters were all there to welcome the team with a high zeal.

Shaheen Shah Afridi, the talented fast bowler, couldn't contain his enthusiasm and took to his official Instagram account to share his thoughts. This warm reception from Indian cricket fans has set a positive tone for Pakistan's campaign in the tournament. He tagged Hyderabad, India, in his story.

'"Great welcome thus far," Shaheen captioned his Instagram story post to appreciate Indian fans and the city for the warm reception on arrival in India.

Pakistan's preparations for the ODI World Cup 2023 include two warm-up matches against New Zealand and Australia, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, in Hyderabad. Their opening clash is scheduled for Friday, October 6, against the Netherlands.

Although we have not played in India before, we are not taking too much pressure: Babar Azam

Meanwhile, ahead of their departure, Pakistan skipper, Babar Azam, addressed the media, outlining his team's aspirations and mindset. He assured that the Pakistani squad would strive to perform under pressure and not be daunted by the occasion. Babar exuded confidence, expressing his desire not only to secure a top-four spot but also to lift the coveted trophy.

“All of us are proud of travelling for the World Cup. Although we have not played in India before, we are not taking too much pressure. We have done our research and we have heard the conditions are similar to how they play out in other Asian countries. It is quite an honour for me to travel as the captain this time around, I hope we come back with a trophy this time,” Azam was quoted as saying by India Today.

“The top-four is a small goal for us. We want to come out as winners. We did not have enough time to put together a camp before the World Cup because we had been playing for too long continuously. We wanted to give the players a break so they come back refreshed and with the hunger to win. You play well when you have that hunger,” he concluded.