The ‘threat’ was real: Artists celebrate Pakistan’s T20 victory against New Zealand
The Pakistani cricket team sent waves of joy across the nation once again after their second T20 victory, this time against New Zealand. After the historic T20 win against India, Pakistani cricket fans approached the game with New Zealand brimming with cautious optimism. With the wound inflicted by the Black Cap’s exit from their recent cricket tour of Pakistan still fresh, Pakistanis hoped for a win to get back at the team for their last minute cancellation. The green shirts did not disappoint, performing spectacularly on the field, despite a stumble or two.
The high-stakes match had Pakistani cricket fans glued to the screen. With the win predictor inching towards one team and then another during the nail-biting game. With Shoaib Malik’s patient yet powerful approach and Asif Ali’s energetic hits turning the tide of the match in Pakistan’s favour after a slow start, as well as Haris Rauf’s brilliant bowling performance helping cap off New Zealand’s innings at 134/8, the game was one for the books. The Men in Green chased down a 135 run target in a match that kept cricket fans glued to their screens, with several celebrities taking to social media to share their excitement about the eventual win.
Actor Humayun Saeed took to Twitter to congratulate the team, writing, “Well done and congratulations to Pakistan on another brilliant win! Got a bit challenging but that's ok. Well played, Shoaib Malik and Asif Ali. Great job by Haris Rauf as well! Insha Allah we have to reach the final at all costs and win this tournament. Keep the momentum going!”
— Humayun Saeed (@iamhumayunsaeed) October 26, 2021
Fans at the boundary chanted “Security!” at the Black Caps in reference to the team pulling out of their Pakistan tour at the last minute citing security concerns. Actor Usman Mukhtar took to social media to echo the sentiment held by most Pakistani fans, tweeting, “To all the teams that cancelled on us and didn’t take us seriously, thank you for the motivation! Love, Pakistan.”
— Usman Mukhtar Official (@MukhtarHoonMein) October 26, 2021