PCB Condemns Inappropriate Remarks by Afghan Spectators During ODI
PCB Responds to Spectator Incident
On Saturday, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) expressed strong disapproval regarding the alleged inappropriate comments directed at Pakistani players by a group of Afghan fans during the third ODI against New Zealand held at Mount Maunganui.
Following a complaint from the Pakistani team, two spectators of Afghan descent were removed from the venue.
The match ended with Pakistan losing by 43 runs, resulting in a 0-3 series defeat in the one-day format, having previously lost the five-match T20 series 1-4.
As anti-Pakistan chants arose, cricketer Khushdil Shah intervened, urging the crowd to stop. However, the Afghan spectators escalated the situation by responding with more inappropriate language in Pashto, according to a statement from the PCB.
Historically, there have been instances of confrontations between Pakistani and Afghan fans at various venues during matches between the two nations.
Notably, Ibrahim Zadran had previously used the presentation ceremony of the 2023 World Cup match against Pakistan to criticize the deportation of Afghan nationals by Pakistan.
Additionally, the PCB addressed concerns regarding opener Imam-ul-Haq's fitness. Imam had to retire hurt after being struck in the face by an accidental throw from a New Zealand player during the third over of Pakistan's innings.
He underwent a CT scan at Tauranga Hospital, where he was diagnosed with a mild concussion but was later cleared to travel back home with the team.