Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal made racist comments about Indian bowler Arshdeep Singh during a live stream, prompting Harbhajan Singh to fiercely defend the Sikh community.
Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal made racist remarks about Indian bowler Arshdeep Singh during a live stream following India’s narrow six-run victory over Pakistan in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 in New York. Akmal’s insensitive comments, which mocked Arshdeep’s Sikh religion, sparked widespread criticism. Indian cricket legend Harbhajan Singh was among the first to condemn Akmal’s remarks.
During a broadcast on ARY News, Akmal was analyzing the final over of Pakistan’s chase. With 18 runs needed off the last six balls, Akmal made a controversial statement targeting Arshdeep and the Sikh community.
“Kuch bhi ho sakta hai… Dekhe last over karna Arshdeep Singh ne hai. Waise uska rhythm nahi laga. 12 baj gaye hai (Anything can happen. The last over will be bowled by Arshdeep Singh; he hasn’t looked in a great rhythm. And It is already 12),” Akmal said.
“Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal (A hundred thousand curses on you, Kamran Akmal). You should know the history of sikhs before you open your filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved your mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock. Shame on you…Have some Gratitude,” Harbhajan responded through his social media handle.
Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal.. You should know the history of sikhs before u open ur filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved ur mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock . Shame on you guys.. Have some Gratitude @KamiAkmal23 😡😡🤬 https://t.co/5gim7hOb6f
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) June 10, 2024
Akmal’s remarks ignited a massive backlash on social media, with many expressing their outrage and supporting Harbhajan’s stance.
Following the former Indian spinner’s criticism, Kamran Akmal apologized for his remarks, admitting they were inappropriate and disrespectful. Akmal’s apology was posted on his social media handle 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 wrote.
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
On the tournament front, India won a close match against Pakistan by 6 runs on June 9. Despite being dismissed for a low score of 119 in 19 overs, they managed to limit Pakistan to 113/7 through effective bowling.
Last Updated on June 11, 2024
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