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In a recent press conference that has taken the cricket news world by storm, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Zaka Ashraf made a reference to India and other nations as 'Dushman Mulk'. This statement comes at a time when there's a significant uplift in the earnings of the players through their central contracts.
"The morale of the players should be up when they go to an enemy country or where the competition is being held. They should go with full support of the nation so that they can perform well," were the exact words of Ashraf, which are now echoing on social media in the form of viral videos.
Enhanced player contracts and ICC Revenue Sharing
In a move reflecting the PCB's commitment to its players, 25 cricketers from Pakistan are set to benefit from three-year central contracts. This isn't just a nod to their talent but also a significant step in ensuring their efforts are well-compensated. These contracts also come with a share of the ICC revenue, marking a new era in player-board relations.
Pakistan Cricket Squad's arrival for ICC World Cup 2023
The Pakistan cricket squad, under the leadership of Babar Azam, made their grand entrance in Hyderabad, marking their participation in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. Their arrival on September 29 was not just about cricket but became a spectacle, given the backdrop of Zaka Ashraf's controversial remark.
The cricketing action is set to intensify as Pakistan gears up for its World Cup 2023 campaign. The team is scheduled to play two warm-up matches at the renowned Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Uppal. The first clash will see them face New Zealand on September 29, followed by a game against Australia on October 3.
Their official journey in the World Cup begins with a match against The Netherlands on October 6. This will be followed by another high-stakes game against Sri Lanka on October 10.
The warm embrace: Pakistan's reception in India
Despite the undertones of the 'Dushman Mulk' comment, the Pakistani players were overwhelmed by the heartwarming reception they received in India. Their journey will take them through various cities, including Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata. The pinnacle of their tour will undoubtedly be the much-awaited match against India in Ahmedabad on October 14.
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