Abu Dhabi: Stand-in skipper Shahid Afridi Tuesday led a consolation and condemnation message on the tragic killing in Peshawar, saying the heinous crime had left everyone in the team "shocked and hurt."
The Taliban attack on an army-run school left over hundred people killed, most of them students, sending shocking waves in the Pakistan team camp which is playing a one-day series against New Zealand in United Arab Emirates.
"It's sad what's happened in Peshawar," said Afridi before the fourth match in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
"Our prayers are with the families who have lost their kids. I hope the situation will get better in Pakistan and we live in a secure atmosphere."
Afridi, who also hails from the troubled north-west Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, said "Obviously Pakistan is our country and if any thing happens there it saddens us."
"Whether we are in Pakistan or away, it affects us. Ever since we heard this news we were saying that it should not have happened. We hope the situation gets better but we hope that all those who have the responsibility will improve the situation."
Pakistan team manager Moin Khan said the tragedy has left everyone sad in the team.
"It is shocking," said Khan. "We are deeply disturbed by the series of events in Peshawar and at the loss of innocent kids lives. May Almighty give patience to the parents of these kids who lost their lives, we share their grief and loss."
