Wasim Akram raises concerns over cross-border schadenfreude

Legendary former Pakistan pacer, Wasim Akram, has voiced apprehensions regarding the celebration trend of Indians and Pakistanis reveling in each other's losses during clashes in major events. 

In a recent interview with a local sports channel, Akram drew a parallel between this conduct and a common expression, suggesting that it conveys a disregard for finding joy in someone else's misfortune.

While refraining from naming specific individuals, the former pacer also emphasized the need for unity and urged both nations to be respectful during times of competition.

"Seeing the way India and Pakistan celebrate each other's losses, I can only think of the phrase, 'Begaani shaadi mein abdulla deewana'," Wasim Akram said.

"I am not naming anyone, but there are a few famous people in both countries who sometimes don't help the cause. You are patriotic for your country, and we are for ours. Let's finish it there. Just be nice to each other at a time when everyone is struggling. At the end of the day, it's just a game," he added.

Former Indian opening batter, Gautam Gambhir, also urged supporters to find joy in their team's success rather than deriving satisfaction from the failure of others. 

“It is senseless to celebrate someone else’s defeat. When Pakistan lose, Indian fans enjoy it, and it is the same in Pakistan when India fails to win a contest. This is a negative attitude. It is time to change this mindset. People have started doing such things for the sake of social media. Find joy in your success and not in the pain of others,” Gautam Gambhir said.