Cricket, often revered as a gentleman’s game, has its moments of intense passion and confrontation. Recently, Pakistan’s Haris Rauf made headlines for an altercation with fans in the USA, following Pakistan’s early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup. On that note, let us check out top 5 controversies involving Pakistan cricketers.
Haris Rauf’s Heated Exchange with Fan
Recently, Haris Rauf was involved in a public spat with fans in the USA after Pakistan’s early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup. In a viral video, Rauf is seen angrily confronting fans who allegedly insulted his family. Despite attempts by his wife to calm him down, Rauf’s reaction was fierce, leading to widespread discussion on social media. He later explained that personal attacks on his family were the cause of his outburst.
Inzamam-ul-Haq’s Bat-Wielding Fury
During a match in Toronto, a fan repeatedly called Inzamam-ul-Haq a “potato.” Inzamam, known for his usually calm demeanor, lost his composure and charged towards the spectator with a bat. This rare display of aggression from Inzamam highlighted the intense pressure players can face from fans.
Asif Ali vs Fareed Ahmed fight
During an Asian Cup match between Pakistan and Afghanistan back in 2022, Asif Ali and Fareed Ahmed made headlines. The incident transpired in the penultimate over of the run chase, shortly after Asif’s dismissal, which saw the Pakistan batter hurl his bat at Fareed, almost hitting the Afghanistan pacer as tempers flared.
Ahmed Shehzad vs Dilshan controversy
Back in 2014, Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad allegedly told Tillakaratne Dilshan, “If you are a non-Muslim and you turn Muslim, no matter whatever you do in your life, straight to heaven.” It is to be noted that Dilshan was a Muslim (he was called Tuwan Mohammed Dilshan) before converting to Buddhism and changing his name to Tillakaratne Mudiyanselage Dilshan.
Shahid Afridi vs Gautam Gambhir fight
It all started during a ODI game between India and Pakistan in Kanpur back in 2007. Gambhir was running down the pitch to complete a run when he collided with Afridi and the two got into a heated argument. Whether Afridi deliberately got in Gambhir’s way or the latter intentionally ran into him is anybody’s guess. But that moment didn’t go unnoticed since it wasn’t common to see Indian and Pakistani players have a go at each other in such an aggressive manner.
