In a growth that has reignited outdated tensions inside Pakistan’s cricketing circles, former quick bowler Shoaib Akhtar has been served a authorized discover by former Pakistan workforce analyst, a famend cricket historian and tv character. The discover accuses Akhtar of defamation following feedback made on a podcast, the place Akhtar allegedly referred to his workforce’s former analyst as a “package man” throughout their shared tenure with the nationwide workforce.
The controversy started when Akhtar, identified for his outspoken nature, appeared on a podcast and recounted his experiences with workforce managers and analysts. In a pointed comment, Akhtar described Dr. Nauman Niaz as somebody who “used to hold our baggage and baggage for us within the workforce,” dismissing every other contribution by Niaz and diminishing his position to that of a “package man”. Akhtar’s feedback have been made within the context of criticizing the roles of coaches and managers, however particularly focused Dr. Niaz, who served because the Pakistan workforce’s knowledge analyst on a couple of excursions throughout Akhtar’s enjoying days.
Dr. Niaz, who has held a number of prestigious positions—together with Director of Sports activities at Pakistan Tv Community and official historian of Pakistan cricket—is extensively revered for his intensive contributions to sports activities journalism and broadcasting. His tutorial credentials embrace a PhD from the College of Western Australia and a postdoctoral qualification from Oxford, and he has authored a number of authoritative works on cricket. Given this background, Akhtar’s remarks have been perceived as not solely dismissive but in addition damaging to Dr. Niaz’s skilled fame.
Additionally READ: Kerala expatriate community faces backlash for welcoming Shahid Afridi at Dubai event; organisers issue apology
A historical past of clashes between Akhtar and his former colleague
The authorized discover, served by way of Dr. Niaz’s lawyer, calls for an unconditional apology from Akhtar inside 14 days, failing which authorized proceedings and a declare for damages will observe. This isn’t the primary public conflict between the 2. Throughout Imran Khan’s tenure as Prime Minister, a heated on-air change led Dr. Niaz to ask Akhtar to depart a dwell PTV Sports activities present. That incident was later resolved after ministerial intervention and a public apology from Dr. Niaz.
Dr. Niaz’s response to Akhtar’s latest feedback demonstrates his resolve to guard his skilled standing. The discover underlines that such remarks not solely undermine his contributions as a knowledge analyst and broadcaster but in addition threat tarnishing his legacy in cricket journalism.
For Akhtar, this episode provides to a protracted record of controversies which have marked his post-retirement profession. Recognized for his candid opinions, Akhtar’s statements usually make headlines, however this time, the fallout could possibly be authorized slightly than simply public.
Additionally READ: PAK vs BAN, 3rd T20I: Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match? | Pakistan vs Bangladesh
