“So I want the whole of Pakistan to back India, on social media and when it comes to public news. Because we need England to be out of this tournament,” Akhtar said in a video on his Youtube channel said.
In the video Akhtar said, "Very odd, that as a Pakistani I'm saying this and requesting all Pakistanis living in the country and abroad - please support whoever you think is right. But another option - you drink their waters, so you better support them. You live in England, so support England. You eat in England, so support England. However, as Pakistanis in Pakistan, we want Pakistan to qualify. If England get knocked out and Pakistan win against Bangladesh, the way will open up for us.”
After its three-wicket win over Afghanistan, Pakistan has moved to the fourth place in the points-table, pushing hosts England to the fifth spot in the World Cup. The Green Brigade will now face Bangladesh in their final and most crucial group match if they want to enter to the semis.
However, only a win for the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led side won't be enough as Pakistan should also hope that both England and Bangladesh lose their remaining matches to cement their semi-finals berth.