Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Harbhajan Singh then spoke out in support of Shami, while Aakash Chopra’s social media profile picture was changed to that of the India fast bowler.
On the post-match show following Pakistan’s five-wicket win over New Zealand in the T20 World Cup on Tuesday, Akhtar said he was treated rudely and humiliated by the host. On air, the 46-year-old screamed his rage and clarified what had happened.
“Multiple clips are circulating on social media so I thought I shud clarify. dr noman was obnoxious (sic) and rude when he asked me to leave the show. It was embarrassing, especially when you have legends like Sir Vivian Richards and David Gower sitting on the set with some of my contemporaries and seniors and millions watching.” Shoaib Akhtar wrote
“I tried to save everyone from embarrassment by saying I was pulling Dr. Noman’s leg with this mutual understanding that dr noman will also politely apologize and we would move on with the show, which he refused to do. I tied to repair the damage within the program but he didn’t say sorry to me. Then I had no other choice.” Shoaib Akhtar continued
David Gower
Shoaib Akhtar then resigned from his position as a cricket analyst at PTV, which is owned by the government. Akhtar, who had been the face of Pakistan for nearly a decade, removed his microphone and exited the broadcast. Other panelists, such as Viv Richards and David Gower, were noticeably shaken by this.
“This is just the start of the tournament. I believe India will still get to the final. The journey to the final will be a tough one now. There was too much pressure and they collapsed slightly but that doesn’t mean the fans should spread hatred for their players. That’s not good. India can still qualify and I want India and Pakistan to meet in the final again.” Akhtar said
On Sunday, India will return to action at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium when they face New Zealand.
Read more: Aakash Chopra says “Tu chal main aaya” in T20 World Cup 2021
Visit also: Controversies that erupted following Pakistan’s win over India: T20 World Cup 2021