Just a day after the start of the 9th edition of Pakistan Super League, another controversy related to the league came into limelight. This time it was not about the players or the team management, it was about the lack of courtesy of a former Pakistan cricketer, which he showed during the live screen before the start of the match.
This shocking incident happened in the second league match of PSL between Karachi Kings and Quetta Gladiators on Thursday. When former Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed made fun of the English bowler Dominic Cork said that he has dismissed him many times in his career. Although the intelligent man turned the conversation towards the match, he felt disrespectful towards the former Pakistani cricketer.
PSL: What was the whole incident?
The second match of PSL between Quetta Gladiators and Karachi Kings was about to start at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. During the pre-match show, former Pakistan spinner Mushtaq Ahmed and England cricketer Dominic Cork shared their expert opinions regarding the squad, pitch and players of both the teams.
Mushtaq tried to defend Cork, saying that he had dismissed him on several occasions during his playing career. The former England fast bowler was a bit surprised by this statement and Mushtaq kept reminding him about it despite his insistence on moving forward.
PSL: What is the reaction of the fans?
After its clip went viral, many fans pointed out the lack of manners in Pakistani players who do not know how to speak and have zero civic understanding of the game. Fans on social media have now taken to the internet to say that Mushtaq lacks “basic manners” and there was no need to make such comments when Cork were asking Mushtaq to analyze the game.
This is how Mushtaq Ahmed’s awkward conversation with Dominic Cork on live TV unfolded
cork: You were brilliant, moving the ball both ways. Adam Zampa is behind us. What would you tell him about bowling on this surface?
Mushtaq: Before I tell Zampa anything, let me tell you something. How many times have you been in my pocket? Test matches, ODIs and first-class matches. Do you remember that? I have a pretty good memory, let me tell you that.
cork: Musashi, you got me out once.
Mustaq: I think about it many times.
cork: But I could not bat. Don’t worry about kicking me out. Get that top order out.
Mushtaq: I think you’re being polite here, Dom. You used to play for England as an all-rounder.
cork: Less about me, more about this surface. I want to know about Adam Zampa.
PSL: Mushtaq Ahmed vs Dominic Cork: A career comparison
Mushtaq Ahmed is considered one of the best spin bowlers of Pakistan. In his international career, he played 52 Tests and 144 ODIs, taking over 300 wickets in both formats. He also had successful performances in English county cricket, representing Somerset, Surrey and Sussex.
After this incident, all eyes will be on Pakistan Super League (PSL) to see what kind of action is taken against the former Pakistan cricketer. The cricket world is keeping a close eye on this, as maintaining values, respect and professionalism among international players is important for the reputation of the league.
Fans and experts alike are debating whether formal warnings, fines or other disciplinary measures will be implemented to ensure such incidents do not recur. Meanwhile, the tournament is progressing with excitement as the third game of the PSL will see Peshawar Zalmi take on Pindiz at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore today, which promises exciting cricket and high-voltage contest for the fans.
Also read: PSL introduces a game-changing rule to challenge IPL’s dominance
