Irfan Pathan Criticized for Controversial Post on Rain-Hit India vs Pakistan Asia Cup Match

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan found himself in the midst of controversy following a rain-affected India vs. Pakistan Asia Cup 2023 match that ended prematurely. The contest against Pakistan was abandoned after India's first innings due to persistent rain, resulting in both teams earning a point each. India faced a batting collapse with openers Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill departing early. Virat Kohli's innings was cut short by Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Shreyas Iyer's return to the squad was brief.

In the middle order, Ishan Kishan and Hardik Pandya staged a valiant recovery for India, with Kishan scoring 82 runs off 81 balls, including nine fours and two sixes, and Pandya contributing 87 off 90 deliveries, smashing seven fours and a six. Pakistan's bowling attack, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, put up a remarkable performance by taking ten wickets for just 129 runs, ultimately bowling India out for 266 in 48.5 overs.

However, the excitement of a potential run-chase was dashed as rain returned, forcing the match to be called off. It was in the aftermath of this rain-induced anticlimax that Irfan Pathan posted a tweet taking a playful jibe at Indian and Pakistani fans. He humorously remarked, "Bahot saare Padosiyon ke TV bach gaye aaj;)" (Televisions of many neighbors have been saved today).

This tweet didn't sit well with some fans who viewed it as lacking self-respect, especially considering the impressive bowling performance by Pakistan. One user expressed their displeasure, stating, "This is quite a petty and shameless remark, even if the match had ended with India in a winning position. But to say this after Shaheen, Naseem & Rauf took 10 wickets for 129 runs and restricted India to 266, one needs an incredible lack of self-respect. Shame on you, Irfan."

In their upcoming Asia Cup 2023 match against Nepal in Pallekele, India will be without the services of star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who had to return to Mumbai due to personal reasons. Despite being fully fit and making a successful return to the Indian team following an extended injury layoff, Bumrah's departure was approved by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Also Read: IND vs PAK Live Score: Asia Cup 2023 Rivalry Resumes in Rainy Kandy

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