The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to address a recent controversy involving former PCB Chairman and ex-cricketer Ramiz Raja, who reportedly crossed professional lines by posing an inappropriate question to Pakistan’s Test captain, Shan Masood, during a post-match interview.
Ramiz Raja question raises eyebrows
Following Pakistan’s historic Test series victory over England, Raja, in an interview on October 26, raised a pointed question with Masood. Referring to Pakistan’s recent challenging Test record, Raja sarcastically asked, “How did you achieve six losses in a row?”
This comment seemed to target Masood’s past difficulties as captain, where Pakistan had endured six consecutive Test defeats. Despite the provocative nature of the question, Masood maintained his composure, responding, “Ramiz bhai, we needed this win, the nation needed this win, and I’m really happy that Pakistan won.”
PCB considers Disciplinary Action
Insiders report as per Cricket Pakistan suggest that the PCB may take action to ensure professionalism in media engagements with players. Sources within the PCB suggest that Raja could be excluded from the commentary team for Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball series against Australia in November, a measure to distance official broadcasts from controversial commentary.
Pakistan’s Redemption
The recent Test series win was a significant milestone for Masood and the national team, who had come under scrutiny due to recent losses. Pakistan’s spinners, Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, delivered match-winning performances in the series finale in Karachi, helping Pakistan secure a nine-wicket victory over England.
With spin-friendly conditions, the duo took 19 of England’s 20 wickets, skittling them out for 112 runs in their second innings – their lowest Test score in Pakistan since 1987. Masood led the chase of 37 runs with confidence, sealing the game with a six and marking a powerful comeback for Pakistan’s Test team.
PCB move Towards Media Decorum
This incident underscores the PCB’s focus on maintaining respectful interactions in cricketing forums. The Board’s potential actions may set a precedent for media conduct, especially during live post-match interviews, to ensure respectful exchanges with players, particularly during pivotal series.
As Pakistan prepares for its series against Australia, all eyes are on the PCB’s next move regarding Raja’s future involvement in cricket commentary.
