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Former Pakistan skipper Shahid Afridi recently opened up about a defeat in the memorable semi-final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 against India, recalling how the intense atmosphere in the stadium played a crucial role in shifting the momentum of the match.

Afridi, who captained Pakistan national cricket team during the tournament, reflected on the contest played in Mohali, where India eventually secured a victory in a closely fought encounter to reach the final.

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Pakistan Off to a Strong Start

Speaking on a Pakistan news channel, Afridi recalled that Pakistan had begun their run chase in a strong position.

The opening pair of Mohammad Hafeez and Kamran Akmal had provided a solid start, putting pressure back on the Indian side and giving the team confidence in the early phase of the innings.

Afridi admitted that, at that point, he felt relaxed in the dressing room as Pakistan appeared to be on course for a comfortable chase.

“I remember in 2011, when we were playing the semi-final against India in Chandigarh. We started very well. Mohammad Hafeez and Kamran Akmal scored 90 runs. We didn't have any wickets at that time. And even as a captain sitting relaxed, thinking we will win.”

Crowd Pressure Changed the Momentum

However, Afridi explained that the momentum shifted dramatically once Pakistan lost their first wicket.

According to the former captain, the energy of the Indian crowd lifted the home team and created immense pressure on the Pakistan batters.

Afridi revealed that the noise and atmosphere inside the stadium made it difficult for his players to stay composed during crucial moments of the match.

“The first wicket fell. After that, the way the crowd picked up the Indian team and how they fought, some of my batters were shivering.”

Pakistan Struggled Under Immense Pressure

Afridi further described how the rising pressure affected Pakistan’s batting lineup as the match progressed.

He recalled watching from the dressing room as the players began struggling to deal with the tense atmosphere and constant noise from the stands.

“As a leader and captain, I was watching Hafeez getting out. And then our players struggled on every ball. Because there was so much noise behind them. We went under immense pressure.”

MS Dhoni led India to a close win over Pakistan in the semi-final in Mohali. Earlier, Sachin Tendulkar played a crucial knock of 85 runs, while the bowlers held their nerve to defend the total in a tense contest.

The victory helped India reach the final of the World Cup, where they eventually went on to lift the trophy and become world champions.