Gulbadin Naib, the seasoned Afghan cricketer, recently shared his insights on the fervor and significance of rivalries in international cricket, particularly focusing on the intense competition between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Representing the Dubai Capitals in the 2025 DP World ILT20, Naib’s perspectives shed light on the passion that drives these encounters and the role such rivalries play in the world of cricket.
For Naib, the rivalry between Afghanistan and Pakistan is one of the most electrifying in the sport. He emphasized that when these two teams meet, the atmosphere is always charged with emotion and anticipation, not just on the field but also in the stands, where fans from both countries show unwavering support for their respective sides. Naib noted that these matches bring out the best in both teams, and the energy is palpable. He mentioned, “The rivalry with Pakistan is much more intense than India-Afghanistan. Whenever we face Pakistan, the atmosphere is electric, whether in India, Pakistan, or Dubai. It’s a clash that brings out the best in both teams.”
Naib’s reflections highlight how these high-stakes encounters not only fuel the passion of the fans but also motivate the players to perform at their peak. The intense competition between Afghanistan and Pakistan goes beyond the game itself, with a strong sense of national pride and history attached to every ball bowled and run scored. Such matches, according to Naib, are more than just a contest between bat and ball—they are a battle for honor and recognition on the international stage.
While the rivalry with Pakistan has been a defining aspect of Afghanistan’s cricketing journey, Naib made sure to clarify that Afghanistan does not share any negative sentiments towards India. He expressed a deep respect for the Indian cricketing community, acknowledging the support and appreciation they have received over the years. “We don’t have any issues with India. We enjoy playing with them because they are a loving cricketing nation,” Naib stated. This sentiment highlights the respect that exists between Afghanistan and India, even as both nations engage in fierce competition on the field.
Rivalries such as these have played a crucial role in shaping Afghanistan’s cricketing culture. Naib believes that such intense competition pushes players to elevate their skills and mental toughness. Moreover, the support from the Afghan government and the passionate fanbase has been a driving force behind the team’s progress. “The most positive thing we see is that, in the coming time, our people love and support us,” Naib said, emphasizing the importance of national support in fostering growth in the sport.
Looking ahead, Naib is optimistic about Afghanistan’s prospects in future international tournaments, including the Champions Trophy. The team will face formidable opponents like Australia, South Africa, and England. Despite the challenges, Naib is confident that Afghanistan can compete with the best in the world.