Former Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Kamran Akmal has issued an unconditional apology to Harbhajan Singh for his “inappropriate and disrespectful” comments regarding India pacer Arshdeep Singh’s religion during the India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2024 match. Akmal’s comments, made on ARY News, sparked outrage on social media, particularly from Harbhajan Singh.
“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,” Akmal wrote on X, tagging the former Indian cricketer.
During the 19th over of Pakistan’s chase in the high-stakes match at Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York, Akmal made a controversial remark about Arshdeep’s religion, joking about the time of day. This drew a strong reaction from Harbhajan Singh, who lambasted Akmal on social media for his insensitivity.
Harbhajan responded, “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.”
Despite the controversy, Arshdeep Singh’s performance in the final over of the match was pivotal. Tasked with defending 17 runs, he conceded only 11, securing a six-run victory for India and finishing with figures of 1/31.
Earlier, India’s batting struggled after being sent in by Pakistan captain Babar Azam. Openers Virat Kohli (4) and Rohit Sharma (13) were dismissed early. Rishabh Pant (42 off 31 balls) provided some stability, but the lower middle order collapsed, leaving India all out for 119 in 19 overs. Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah both took three wickets each, while Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi contributed with crucial scalps.
In their run chase, Pakistan adopted a cautious approach. Mohammad Rizwan’s 31 off 44 balls was the top score, but India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah (3/14) and Hardik Pandya (2/24), restricted Pakistan effectively. Bumrah’s exceptional spell earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ award, ensuring India’s victory in a thrilling contest.
