Afridi Says Human Loss Should Never Be Celebrated
Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has urged people to respond with humanity after an Indian fighter jet crashed during the Dubai Airshow.
Speaking to reporters in Peshawar, Afridi said no one should celebrate a tragedy, even if it involves a rival nation. He quoted a Punjabi verse to emphasize his point:
No one should rejoice in another’s sorrow. Do not celebrate even an enemy’s death; our loved ones must also depart one day.
His comments came shortly after news of the fatal crash spread across South Asia, where reactions often become emotional due to long-standing India–Pakistan tensions.
Indian Tejas Jet Crashes During Aerobatic Display
The Dubai Airshow attracts aviation companies, military delegations and visitors from nearly 90 countries. As part of the event, India showcased its locally produced Tejas Light Combat Aircraft.
During a high-speed maneuver, the Tejas jet suddenly lost control and plunged to the ground. Rescue teams reached the site immediately, but the pilot died before they could save him. Investigators later closed the display area and began gathering evidence to determine the exact cause.
Indian officials believe a technical malfunction likely triggered the crash.
Earlier during the same event, the Tejas program also faced scrutiny after an oil-leak incident reported at the Dubai Airshow. Aviation experts say mechanical faults can emerge during sharp turns or high-pressure stunts, especially in fast-moving fighters.
The Tejas program remains a major part of India’s defense strategy. India views the aircraft as a symbol of its growing military manufacturing capability. However, the crash has raised fresh questions about its reliability and the pressure pilots face during international demonstrations.
Afridi: Humanity Must Come Before Rivalry
Afridi used the incident to remind fans about the values that sports promote.
Sports teach us respect, kindness and patience, he said. A family lost a loved one. That grief matters more than political rivalry.
His statement offered a calm counterpoint to the divided reactions on social media, where some users expressed sympathy, while others mocked the incident. Afridi encouraged people to show restraint during moments of loss.
Praise for PCB’s New Direction
During the media interaction, Afridi also commented on Pakistan cricket. He praised Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for making what he described as strong and timely decisions.
Afridi said the board now works with clearer planning and better coordination. He believes this new direction helps young cricketers gain confidence and visibility.
We see more talent coming forward because the system finally supports them, he said.
Cricket analysts also note that the PCB recently strengthened scouting networks and upgraded training facilities. These steps aim to create a stable pipeline of future national players.
PSL Expansion Could Unlock New Talent
Afridi welcomed discussions about expanding the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The tournament currently features six teams, but officials hope to add more franchises.
More teams will create more jobs for our players, Afridi said. Young cricketers need bigger stages, and an expanded PSL can offer exactly that.
The PSL already serves as a launching pad for many Pakistani players who later move directly into the national side. An increase in teams could widen this pathway even further.
Strong World Cup Preparation Underway
Afridi also spoke about Pakistan’s preparation for upcoming ICC tournaments, including the next World Cup. He said players train intensively and understand the responsibility of performing on the global stage.
Preparation shapes results, he said. The boys know what the country expects from them. They train with discipline and aim to improve every day.
