“No Need to Get Friendly With India Players on the Field” – Moin Khan’s Message to Pakistan Cricketers
By Aayush Pathak in 2 hours
Former Pakistan captain Moin Khan has urged the national team to maintain a professional distance from Indian players during their upcoming ICC Champions Trophy clash. The two arch-rivals are set to face off on February 23 in Dubai. Moin believes over-friendliness could cost Pakistan dearly.
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“I just don’t get it when I watch Pakistan and India matches these days. As Indian players come to the crease, our players check their bats, pat them, have a friendly talk,” Moin said on a podcast hosted by actor Ushna Shah.
“Being Too Friendly is a Sign of Weakness”
Moin, known for his aggressive approach on the field, believes friendliness with the opposition weakens a team’s mentality.
“Our seniors always told us that when playing against India, give no quarter and don’t even talk to them on the field. When you get friendly, they see it as a sign of weakness,” Moin stated.
The 53-year-old wicketkeeper-batter played numerous high-pressure matches against India during his career. He recalled having immense respect for Indian players, but never showing it on the field.
“Nowadays, our players’ behavior when playing against India is unfathomable to me. Even off the field, as professionals, you have to have certain boundaries.”
Moin’s Stance Remains Unchanged
Moin has always advocated maintaining competitive aggression. Even during his stint in the now-defunct Indian Cricket League (ICL), he discouraged friendly interactions.
“I told players during matches to avoid unnecessary banter. Being too friendly is seen as a sign of weakness, and it automatically puts you under pressure.”
Moin also shared his biggest regret—never beating India in a World Cup match.
“Not being able to beat India in a World Cup remains one of the biggest regrets for players from my time.”
“Respect your opponents, but don’t let friendliness affect your game,” he concluded.
The last time these two teams met in the Champions Trophy was during the 2017 final. Pakistan defeated India in that game.
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