Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy campaign didn’t get off to the best start, as they fell short by 60 runs against New Zealand in the opening match. While the defeat stung, one player who showed resilience was Khushdil Shah.
The left-hander played a fighting knock of 69 off 49 balls, trying to keep Pakistan in the chase. But instead of appreciation, he once again found himself at the receiving end of “parchi parchi” chants from a section of the crowd—a term used to accuse players of favoritism in selection.
This isn’t new for him. Criticism has followed him throughout his career. But this time, he decided to respond.
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“If I Played for Myself, You Wouldn’t Be Chanting ‘Parchi'”
Speaking to journalists after the match, Khushdil didn’t shy away from addressing the negativity.
“If I were playing for my personal score, the chants of ‘parchi parchi’ wouldn’t have been heard today,” he said calmly. “I have never played cricket for myself. My focus has always been on contributing to the team’s success. I try to score without caring about my wicket.”
His words carried weight. He wasn’t playing for milestones—he was playing for Pakistan.
The Fightback with Naseem Shah
Chasing 321, Pakistan found themselves in deep trouble. But Khushdil and Naseem Shah tried to stage a comeback.
“Naseem and I were discussing that if we could take the game to the last over, we could win it,” he revealed.
They gave it their best shot, but with no wickets left in the bank, the chase fell apart.
Despite the loss, Khushdil’s effort stood out. He played positively, took on the bowlers, and tried to shift the momentum. But for some fans, his performance wasn’t enough to silence the critics.
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“People Have Been Chanting at Me for Two Years Now”
This isn’t the first time Khushdil has faced taunts from fans. He has been dealing with it for years.
“People have been chanting slogans at me for two years now. It has become a habit for me. I even tell them, ‘Go on, chant some more,’” he said with a smirk.
It’s a tough reality for players who don’t have a “fan-favorite” status. One bad match, and they’re targeted. But Khushdil has learned to take it in stride.
He also had a message for the fans:
“Our country is hosting the Champions Trophy, and it’s important for people to back the team and players,” he urged. “It’s disappointing when players are subjected to negative chants at their home ground. It shouldn’t happen, but I’ve learned to handle it and continue enjoying my game.”
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