'These cricketers should be ashamed of themselves for saying such a thing'
'For the last five years what have they given us or done with Pakistan cricket'
'Shocked and hurt' by Shahid Afridi's comments that Pakistan's cricketers are loved more by Indians than the fans in their own country, former captain Javed Miandad said players making such statements should be 'ashamed' of themselves.
- We only get love in India, not security threat: Afridi, Malik
"These cricketers should be ashamed of themselves for saying such a thing. Shame on you," said Miandad on the Aaj TV channel.
Afridi and senior player Shoaib Malik praised India after landing in the country for the World Twenty20, insisting they have never felt threatened in the country even though their departure was delayed due to security concerns.
"We have always enjoyed playing in India and have been loved by Indian crowds more than crowds back home in Pakistan," Afridi had said.
Miandad said Pakistan had gone to India to play in the World T20, but it doesn't mean that the players should pander to the hosts.
"What have the Indians given us? Speak the truth even while in India. For the last five years what have they given us or done with Pakistan cricket? Having served Pakistan cricket for so many years I am shocked and hurt to hear such comments from our players," Miandad said.
The veteran of 124 Tests said Pakistan's cricket authorities must look into the matter and have proper media classes for the players when they go abroad.
"The job of this team is to go and play well in India not make such unnecessary comments," he said.
Pakistan's former Test opener and chief coach Mohsin Khan also expressed surprise over Afridi and Mali's comments.
"They are senior players and should be careful while speaking to the media, especially while touring India," Khan said.
