During Pakistan vs Afghanistan match on Wednesday (September 7), the Babar Azam- led team won by by one wicket and booked their berth in the final of the tournament. However, during the thriller chase, heated exchange of words happened between Pakistan batter Asif Ali and Afghan fast bowler Fareed Ahmad Malik.
In Malik’s over, Ali first directed the ball for a six. However, on the immediate next ball, Ali went for a pull shot but the ball took the top edge and Karim Janat took a safe catch over his head at short fine leg. After his dismissal, Ali was seen raising his bat at the speedster, after which the other players and umpires on the field had to intervene.
Following the incident, social media users reacted to the actions of both the cricketers. While some asked Ali’s ban from the upcoming match, the others felt it was Malik who should be punished as he initiated the argument. Here’s a look at what people said
Former Afghanistan skipper Gulbadin Naib tweeted, “This is stupidity at extreme level by Asif Ali and should be ban from the rest of the tournament, any bowler has the right to celebrate but being physical is not acceptable at all.
This is stupidity at extreme level by Asif Ali and should be ban from the rest of the tournament, any bowler has the right to celebrate but being physical is not acceptable at all. @icc @ACCMedia1 pic.twitter.com/3ledpmM3mt
— Gulbadin Naib (@GbNaib) September 7, 2022
Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar, however mentioned that the representation of the whole incident was biased and one-sided. He subtly highlighted that it was first Malik’s fault to initiate the argument.
Biased & one sided representation of the incident. We all know what happened there. Come on guys, you're @ESPNcricinfo . https://t.co/7ACxqI7ite
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) September 7, 2022
