- Kamran Akmal made a controversial comment.
- Harbhajan Singh chastised Akmal on social media.
- Akmal apologized, expressing remorse and respect.
Pakistan lost to India by a slim margin of six runs, which led Akmal to make an unsuitable comment during a television discussion in Pakistan.
Arshdeep Singh delivered the final over for India, and Akmal’s disrespectful remark about Singh’s Sikh faith, accompanied by laughter, rapidly spread on social media.
Before the final over, when 18 runs were required, Kamran Akmal was heard saying: “Kuch bhi ho sakta hai… 12 baj gaye hai… kisi Sikh ko nahi dena chaiye 12 baje over. (Anything can happen, It’s 12 past midnight, a Sikh shouldn’t bowl after midnight).”
The video triggered global outrage, with many in Pakistan condemning Akmal’s offensive comment.
Harbhajan Singh, a former Indian cricketer, responded strongly on social media, chastising Akmal for his disrespect.
“Shame on you Kamraan Akhmal… You should know the history of Sikhs before u open ur 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 Kamran Akmal,” Harbhajan posted on his X profile.
In the face of widespread criticism, Akmal apologized on Monday night. He acknowledged his error, expressed profound remorse, and offered a heartfelt apology to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community.
“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,” Akmal penned in his X profile.
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