Ganguly’s Remark on Shoaib Akhtar Triggers a Response
The much-anticipated Netflix documentary series, The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan, is set to premiere on February 7, and its recently released trailer has already ignited discussions among cricket fans and former players. The series explores the intense and historic cricketing rivalry between the two nations, featuring insights from legendary players who have lived through its fiercest moments.
One of the most talked-about moments from the trailer involves former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly recalling the 1996 Friendship Cup, a cricket series held in Canada. In the clip, Ganguly humorously questions the notion of “friendship” in the tournament, given that players had to face deliveries from Shoaib Akhtar at 150 kmph. He remarked:
“It was a Friendship tour only in name, but when Shoaib Akhtar is going to bowl at 150 kilometres an hour, where is the friendship in that?”
Shoaib Akhtar’s Response
Despite not participating in the Friendship Cup, former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar acknowledged Ganguly’s comment by sharing the trailer clip on X (formerly Twitter). His response was respectful and appreciative of the Indian legend, showing the camaraderie that exists between former rivals off the field.
About the Friendship Cup and the Documentary
The Friendship Cup was a short-lived ODI series played in Canada in 1996, 1997, and 1998. While Ganguly played in all three editions, Akhtar was not part of the tournament.
The Netflix documentary delves into the India-Pakistan cricket rivalry, featuring insights from iconic players such as Virender Sehwag, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Sunil Gavaskar, Shikhar Dhawan, and Shoaib Akhtar. The trailer opens with Sehwag emphasizing that this clash is “more than just a game,” highlighting the emotions, passion, and intensity surrounding these encounters.
Netflix promoted the documentary with the caption:
“The biggest rivalry told by the legends who lived it. Dive into a tale of passion, glory, and cricket’s fiercest rivalry in The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan, from 7 February, only on Netflix.”
What’s Next for India vs. Pakistan?
Cricket fans will not have to wait long for another high-stakes encounter between the two teams. The first India-Pakistan clash of 2025 is scheduled for February 23 in Dubai as part of the ICC Champions Trophy. With the excitement already building around the upcoming tournament and the Netflix series, the cricketing world is once again set to witness the electrifying intensity of this legendary rivalry.
