Former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal apologised to ex-Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh for making “inappropriate and disrespectful” comments on India pacer Arshdeep Singh’s religion during the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2024 match.
“I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologise to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community,” Akmal posted on X. “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,” Akmal wrote, tagging Harbhajan.
A video circulating on social media showed Akmal making fun of Arshdeep’s religion, which outraged former off-spinner Harbhajan Singh. The controversial comments were made during the 19th over of Pakistan’s chase in Sunday’s India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup match at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York.
Harbhajan reposted the video from ARY News, where Akmal’s comments sparked significant backlash. “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 while laughing with other panellists on the show.
Harbhajan strongly criticised Akmal for his insensitive remarks. “Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal…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,” he wrote.
In the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup, Arshdeep was tasked with defending 17 runs in the final over, the left-arm pacer performed brilliantly, conceding only 11 runs and securing a six-run victory for India. Arshdeep also dismissed Imad Wasim with the first ball of the over, ending with impressive figures of 1/31 in his four overs.
Pakistan will next face Canada in a do-or-die match today at 8 pm.