In the aftermath of Pakistani cricket legend Wasim Akram’s rebuke of Hasan Raza for his bewildering claim of ‘Indian bowlers using distinct balls,’ Indian pace bowler Mohammed Shami has unequivocally rejected the disparaging assertions made by the former Pakistani cricketer. Following his pivotal role in securing India’s berth in the ICC World Cup semi-finals, senior pacer Shami came across a viral post featuring Raza, who recently accused Team India of nefarious conduct during the ICC World Cup 2023.
Shami Acknowledges Akram’s Wisdom
In a bold statement, Shami castigated critics of Team India and was swift to remind them that it is the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that is overseeing the hosting of the ICC World Cup, emphasizing that this is no domestic tournament confined to India’s boundaries. Speedster Shami also underlined that Raza’s comments had already been categorically disapproved by the former Pakistani captain, Wasim Akram, who had publicly dismissed Raza’s contentions regarding the Indian team’s alleged foul play. During a Pakistani talk show, Akram firmly asserted, “Please refrain from casting aspersions on us in front of the world; it is advisable to keep such disparagements to oneself.”
Shami’s remarks come in the wake of India’s clinching of the pinnacle position in the ICC World Cup 2023 standings, achieved with a stellar victory over the second-placed South Africa. The momentous match played at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, saw the former Indian skipper Virat Kohli marking his 35th birthday with a stellar century, thereby equaling Sachin Tendulkar’s prestigious record of a century tally. Kohli’s remarkable 101-run inning propelled India to a formidable total of 326-5 in 50 overs. Shami, in addition to his stellar performance, claimed pivotal wickets, dismissing Rassie van der Dussen (13) and Aiden Markram (9), preceding Ravindra Jadeja’s spectacular five-wicket haul, which dismantled the Proteas, leaving them reeling at 83 runs in 27.1 overs.
