
The debate around language and identity resurfaced online after Faisal Qureshi calls on Pakistani cricketers to speak Urdu during a recent discussion on his television show. The veteran actor encouraged national players to embrace the country’s mother tongue in public conversations and show pride in their linguistic roots.
A clip from the show quickly began circulating across social media, drawing attention to the actor’s remarks about the importance of Urdu in representing Pakistan on global platforms.
During the conversation, Faisal Qureshi addressed Pakistani cricketers directly, urging them to communicate in Urdu rather than feeling pressured to speak English.
He highlighted how many international sports stars confidently speak their native languages during interviews. As examples, Qureshi pointed to football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, noting that they frequently communicate in Portuguese and Spanish respectively while translators assist global audiences.
According to the actor, language should never become a source of insecurity.
“Why should we feel uncomfortable speaking Urdu?” he questioned, adding that English is not the country’s mother tongue and that there is no shame in not being fluent in it.
The moment quickly gained traction online, with many users agreeing that national figures should promote Urdu when representing Pakistan publicly. Others argued that athletes often use English in international settings for wider accessibility.
Regardless of differing opinions, the clip has reignited discussion around cultural pride and the role public figures play in shaping national identity.
As conversations continue across digital platforms, Faisal Qureshi calls on Pakistani cricketers to speak Urdu has clearly struck a chord with audiences who see language as an important symbol of heritage and confidence.