Gulbadin Naib’s antics during a crucial moment in the match against Bangladesh have sparked controversy and debate. The incident occurred during a pivotal phase of the game at St. Vincent on June 25, just before another rain break, with Bangladesh struggling at 81 for 7 and 2 runs behind on the DLS score.
While fielding at slips, Gulbadin Naib appeared to suffer a hamstring injury, dramatically falling to the ground. This incident followed a message from Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott to slow the game down, leading to speculation about the authenticity of Naib’s injury. Even Rashid Khan seemed perplexed, repeatedly questioning Naib about what had happened. As the rain began and covers were brought on, Naib was helped off the field.
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Simon Doull, commentating on the match, expressed his frustration with Naib’s behavior, labeling it as unacceptable.
“The coach sends a message out to say ‘Slow it down, slow it down,’ and the first slip just dives on the ground needlessly. That is unacceptable. Gone off anyway. I get that might have gone off anyway for the rain,” Doull remarked, clearly unimpressed by the situation.
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The incident also caught the attention of Bangladesh’s Litton Das, who was seen discussing it with Mohammad Nabi, adding a touch of humor to the situation. The replay of Naib’s fall elicited laughter from the commentary team, with Pommie Mbengwa jokingly suggesting, “Oscar, Emmy?” and Doull quipping, “match fee gone.”
This has got to be the most funniest thing ever 🤣 Gulbadin Naib just breaks down after coach tells him to slow things down 🤣😂 pic.twitter.com/JdHm6MfwUp
— Sports Production (@SportsProd37) June 25, 2024
Ban was 2 run behind DLS par score and Gulbadin pulls off this🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/bHyW2ABmVT
— Shibani 🇦🇫 (@meme_ki_diwani) June 25, 2024
Gulbadin Naib did not return to the field immediately when the game resumed, with Najibullah taking his place. However, Naib reappeared shortly after and even bowled the 15th over. This sequence of events has left many questioning the integrity of Naib’s actions and sparked a wider debate on gamesmanship in cricket.
