Amid a 2024 BPL match between Irfan Sukkur and Pakistan cricket team’s batsman Babar Azam, an intense confrontation erupted that would go viral online and social media platforms. This lead to video footage going viral worldwide on social media channels as an evidenced virality video surfaced online.
On-Field Confrontation:
Babar Azam of Rangpur Riders became involved in an on-field verbal exchange between himself and Dhaka wicketkeeper Irfan Sukkur that escalated until an umpire had to intervene and stop their exchange. Babar’s displeasure with Irfan’s response led him into another verbal duel which escalated further before Mohammad Naim Sheikh of Dhaka came forward as mediator to mediate and end their dialogue.
Viral Video Highlights
Social media footage circulated showing Babar shouting “I am not talking to you!” at Irfan during their heated argument during this match’s crucial encounter. Their passionate argument added drama and intensity.
Babar Azam’s Performance: Babar’s exceptional batting contributed significantly to Rangpur Riders securing their victory by scoring an unassailable 79 run victory against Dhaka. His contribution ensured their win could have easily gone either way!
Match Summary
Riders posted an impressive total of 183 runs while losing only eight wickets during their batting innings. In response, Dhaka’s side faltered quickly; all-out for just 104 in 16.3 overs; Babar Azam earned himself Player of the Match honors as a result.
Response from Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB):
Shah Khawar, recently appointed Deputy Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), addressed concerns over Pakistan Cricket Team’s recent poor performance by emphasizing that PCB cannot solely bear responsibility for this decline over the last year.
Shah Khawar provided insights from his perspective as Chairman. While changes to a board may only have limited impacts, other elements are key in improving team performance. Once established and taking their place as Chairmen of Governors they would carefully assess any new situations they encountered.
Government Intervention Clarification: Khawar stressed there was no government interference or decision-making when it comes to cricket board matters, dispelling misconceptions. He asserted, stating it as such “It is incorrectly perceived that either provincial coordination ministry or government interfere with or decide upon matters regarding cricket boards”.
Board Autonomy
In speaking on behalf of PCB guardians, He asserted that decisions have been taken within their authorized powers as stated in its constitution – in line with internal structure and powers vested within PCB.
As expected, the cricket controversy provided fans with unexpected drama while maintaining autonomy within its decision-making processes.