Suresh Raina (Photo Source: Twitter)
In a savage reply that reignited old wounds for Pakistani cricket fans, former Indian batter Suresh Raina reminded a Pakistani journalist about India’s memorable 2011 World Cup semi-final victory over Men in Green in Mohali.
The exchange began when the journalist took a jibe at Raina by pointing out that while former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi was named an ambassador for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Raina was not given that honor.
The journalist’s taunt at Raina came after the latter had spoken about Afridi’s multiple retirements from international cricket while commentating on JioCinema. The incident took place during Qualifier 1 between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Ahmedabad when former Indian opener Aakash Chopra asked Raina if he has any plans to come out of his retirement. Raina responded: “Suresh Raina hu, Shahid Afridi nahi” (I am Suresh Raina, not Shahid Afridi),” Raina said on air.
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Taking the opportunity, a Pakistani journalist took a jobe at Raina. “ICC has named Shahid Afridi as an ambassador for ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Hello Suresh Raina ?” his post read on X.
The former India batter was quick to reply, which rekindled old memories of the India and 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 responded.
ICC has named Shahid Afridi as ambassador for ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
Hello Suresh Raina ? pic.twitter.com/IvHOIYoJ8j
— ٰImran Siddique (@imransiddique89) May 24, 2024
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The left-hand batter was referring to his vital 36-run knock-off of 39 balls that propelled Men in Blue to a match-winning 260/9 against Pakistan in that famous World Cup 2011 semi-final in Mohali. India went on to win the match by 29 runs and lift their second World Cup trophy.
Both India and Pakistan will take on each other on June 9 in the group stage match of the upcoming T20 World Cup in Nassau County International Cricket Stadium, New York.