Former Pakistani wicketkeeper-battler Kamran Akmal apologised after receiving harsh backlash on social media for his inappropriate and discriminatory remarks about Arshdeep Singh’s Sikh faith. Notable figures such as Harbhajan Singh criticised the former cricket player for his disgusting comment.
For those who are unaware, Akmal committed the blunder during the thrilling India vs. Pakistan match while speaking on a live programme in Pakistan. Harbhajan was among those who found this comment offensive, and he expressed his disapproval on his official ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) account.
At a live performance in Pakistan, the 42-year-old declared, “The last over is supposed to be done by Arshdeep Singh, he can be hit as well, you know it’s already 12 no Sikh shall be given after 12.”
“Kamraan Akhmal tere laanat lakh. Before you unleash your dirty mouth, you ought to be aware of the history of the Sikh people. It was always at twelve o’clock when we Sikhs rescued your moms and sisters from the clutches of invaders. Disgrace to you.Acknowledge your gratitude,” Harbhajan shot back with Akmal’s comment.
Also read: Harbhajan Singh criticises Kamran Akmal for making racial insults about Arshdeep Singh
Akmal, who played for Pakistan in 268 international matches, realised his error and tweeted his apology for his snide remark. In addition, he made sure that, aside from the “Turbanator,” he apologised to the entire community.
“To @harbhajan_singh and the Sikh community, I truly apologise for my recent remarks, which I greatly regret. My remarks were indecent and improper. I’ve always had the highest regard for Sikhs everywhere, and I never meant to do harm to anyone. I apologise sincerely,” Akmal posted on X.
I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to @harbhajan_singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry. #Respect #Apology
— Kamran Akmal (@KamiAkmal23) June 10, 2024
In the thrilling last over, Arshdeep well defended India against Pakistan.
The penultimate over, bowled by Jasprit Bumrah, yielded just three runs, meaning that great Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh had eighteen runs to defend in the last over. The left-arm seamer only had four fielders outside the circle due to the over-rate penalty, which he had to deal with in addition to having a respectable number of runs to defend—especially on a slow surface. Nevertheless, he performed admirably under duress, taking Imad Wasim’s wicket with the opening ball. Even though Naseem Shah smashed a few boundaries off the fourth and fifth ball, Pakistan was ultimately six runs short.
With two victories in as many games, Team India holds a commanding lead in Group A. Pakistan, on the other hand, is in danger of being eliminated from the 2024 T20 World Cup after losing their first two games.