In the realm of cricket, few names shine as brightly as Shoaib Akhtar‘s, the Rawalpindi Express. Renowned for his blistering pace and unorthodox charm, Akhtar has always been a magnet for both fans and controversies alike. Over the years, he has made headlines for his bold and often absurd statements. In this article, we delve into four of the most outrageous comments made by Shoaib Akhtar, ones that have left cricket enthusiasts and players alike both bewildered and amused.
ICC World Cup 2023: 5 Most Absurd Statements By Shoaib Akhtar:
1. Shoaib’s Candid Take on Virat Kohli’s Captaincy
In a recent interview with Dainik Jagran, Shoaib Akhtar dropped a bombshell by critiquing the former Indian cricket captain, Virat Kohli. He questioned Kohli’s captaincy during his tenure, stating, “Virat captained for 6-7 years, and I was never in favor of his captaincy. I just wanted him to keep scoring 100-120 runs and keep the focus on his batting.” This statement raised eyebrows across the cricketing world.
Akhtar went on to say, “I would not have even married if I were in his place. I had just scored runs and enjoyed cricket. These 10-12 years of cricket are a different time and don’t come again. I am not saying getting married is wrong, but if you are playing for India, you should enjoy your time a little. Fans are crazy about Kohli, and he had to maintain that love he is getting for the last 20 years.”
This candid commentary by Akhtar sparked debates and discussions among cricket fans and experts, further solidifying his reputation for being outspoken.
2. Shoaib vs. Tendulkar: The ‘Scared’ Claim
In 2011, Shoaib Akhtar released his autobiography, “Controversially Yours,” and sent shockwaves through the cricketing community. In his book, he made a startling claim that Sachin Tendulkar was “scared to face his scorching pace” even on a slow Faisalabad track in 2006. This statement sent Tendulkar’s fans into a frenzy.
Akhtar, however, remained unapologetic, standing by his remark and asserting that it was based on facts. He even accused the media of presenting facts in a “strange manner.” This controversy, fueled by Akhtar’s bold statements, lingered in cricketing circles for years, showcasing his knack for stirring the pot.
3. India can’t produce fast bowlers
During a live cricket discussion show on ARY News, Shoaib Akhtar made headlines yet again by making bold statements about regional superiority in fast bowling. He claimed, “India isn’t known for its fast bowling. We Punjabis from Pakistan are a great race. Punjab and Peshawar produce the majority of quick bowlers. We eat, speak, and walk in different ways.”
This statement stirred up a storm in the cricketing world, igniting debates about the role of regions in producing cricketing talent. Akhtar’s unabashed regional pride and assertion that certain regions are superior in nurturing fast bowlers showcased his penchant for making provocative comments.
Shoaib Akhtar’s cricketing journey has been punctuated by his audacious statements and actions, both on and off the field. While some may view his comments as controversial or absurd, there is no denying that they have added a unique and intriguing dimension to the world of cricket. Akhtar’s boldness and candour have left an indelible mark on the sport, making him a personality that is impossible to ignore.
