Former India bowler Harbhajan Singh has criticized Kamran Akmal for his derogatory and racist comment on India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh.
The former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman made the comment when Arshdeep Singh was preparing to bowl the final match between India and Pakistan on Sunday (June 9) in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
Speaking on a local news channel, Kamran Akmal mocked Arshdeep Singh and his religion, saying: “Anything can happen… it’s 12 o’clock… a Sikh should not be given the ball after 12 o’clock”.
The video of Akmal’s comment has been doing the rounds on social media and has faced severe criticism from Indian fans. Harbhajan Singh also decided to criticize the former Pakistani cricketer for his unpleasant comment and reminded him of the glorious history of the Sikh religion. He also asked Akmal to have gratitude for the Sikh community.
“Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal… You must know the history of Sikhs before opening your dirty mouth. We Sikhs saved your mothers and sisters when they were kidnapped by invaders, the time was invariably 12 o’clock. What a shame… Have some gratitude,” Harbhajan Singh wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal. You must know the history of Sikhs before you open your dirty mouth. We Sikhs saved our mothers and sisters when they were kidnapped by invaders, the time was invariably 12 o’clock. What a shame… Have some gratitude @KamiAkmal23 😡😡🤬
– Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) June 10, 2024
Team India wins thriller:
Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh managed to hold his nerve and defended 17 runs with ease in the final over to propel India to a thrilling 6 wickets. Chasing 120 runs, Pakistan needed 18 runs in the final over with Imad Wasim on strike.
Arshdeep Singh virtually sealed the game on the first ball by dismissing Imad. He conceded two boundaries in the over but India remained in control throughout as they restricted Pakistan to 113 for 7. Pakistan were 80 for 3 after 14 overs before suffering a collapse that derailed their innings. Jasprit Bumrah starred in the ball for India, taking 3 wickets for 14 runs.
Earlier in the game, Pakistan bowled out India by 119 runs after opting to bowl first. India were also in a good position before suffering a collapse that reduced them to 96 for 7 from 89 for 3. However, the total of 119 runs proved to be more than enough in the end as India registered their second win in as many games. .