During the first media interaction of Pakistan in India, as the team arrives for the World T20, senior Pak cricket players were quick enough to win Indian hearts, simultaneously deflecting focus from political issues.

Speaking his mind, Skipper Shahid Afridi said, "Let me say that we are more loved here than in Pakistan. Cricket brings the two countries closer, so there's nothing like playing cricket with India."

As a reply to a question concerning Pakistan government's concern about palyer's security in India, the skipper said, "We are not politicians. We are cricketers and will go by the decision of the state. But as cricketers, we love playing in India because of the love we get here."

Offering his bit, Malik said, "My wife (Sania Mirza) is from India and I visit the country a lot. I've got a lot of love in India... It's an honour to be in India."

"I have never faced any security issue in India. We eat the same food, speak the same language... I don't really see any difference."

Emotional Afridi gushed on his memorable experience in India saying that, "I am in the last stage of my long career and let me tell you that I've not enjoyed playing anywhere as much as I have in India. This experience is something that I will always remember." Afridi will retire at the end of the World T20 championship.

Sumana