Khushdil Shah Lost His Control When Some Spectators Started Abusing

Tensions erupted following Pakistan’s terrible 3-0 ODI series loss to New Zealand, with all-rounder Shah getting into an argument with two Afghan supporters at Bay Oval on Saturday.

The altercation occurred immediately after the contest ended, adding an unpleasant twist to an already miserable day for the visitors. Pakistan player Khushdil Shah couldn’t hold his cool and stormed towards a certain section of supporters after the Mohammad Rizwan-led team lost a setback in the third and final ODI against New Zealand at the Bay Oval.

According to eyewitnesses, several spectators made personal insults to the players as they walked off the pitch. Khushdil, unable to suppress his emotions, whirled around to address the audience. Despite the efforts of other players and security personnel, he persisted with his response.

PCB’s Response to the Khushdil Shah Incident

According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Khushdil was verbally abused by spectators who reportedly sang anti-Pakistan chants and used improper language.

In a statement, the PCB stated, “The Pakistan cricket team management has strongly condemned the abusive language thrown at national players by foreign spectators.” During today’s game, foreign spectators made improper remarks to players on the field.”

“When anti-Pakistan shouts started cricketer Khushdil Shah intervened and implored fans to omit. In response, spectators inflamed the situation by using more unacceptable Pashto language. Following the Pakistani team’s protest, stadium officials intervened and expelled the two disruptive spectators,” the statement said.

Pakistan Team Performance

The incident came in spite of Pakistan’s already difficult trip, in which they were outperformed across all forms.

In the last ODI, Pakistan fell 43 runs short of New Zealand’s 264-8 in a rain-shortened 42-over match. Despite a strong start, their batting disintegrated under strain, with Babar Azam (50), Abdullah Shafique (33), and Mohammad Rizwan (37) putting up some fight.

Ben Sears extended his incredible run, taking 5/34 to become the first New Zealander to collect back-to-back five-wicket hauls in ODIs. He was well assisted by Jacob Duffy (2/40), who took the important wicket of Rizwan.