PCB Speaks Out After Khushdil Shah Abused During Match in New Zealand

The Pakistan Cricket Board has been forcefully vocal about an event that occurred during the third one-day game against New Zealand at Mount Maunganui. The match was on Saturday April 5 and was the final in the ODI series. During the match Khushdil Shah who was not part of the playing XI was subjected to abusive language and inappropriate comments by some individuals in the audience. These individuals were later found to be Afghan spectators. They were present in the stands and began speaking cruel words to the Pakistan players. The Pakistan management did not remain quiet and lodged a complaint immediately. Due to this complaint the two spectators were taken off the ground by the stadium staff.

In their statement the Pakistan Cricket Board categorically stated that they were extremely disappointed with what occurred. They clarified that the abuse was aimed and specifically at Khushdil Shah. He was attempting to defuse the situation and asked the crowd to refrain from shouting. But instead of heeding the spectators got more violent. They used more abusive words and even uttered anti Pakistan slogans. They spoke in Pashto and kept making the situation worse. Although Khushdil Shah was not playing in the match he was there and could not help but notice the attitude. He attempted to hold the situation but things got even tighter.

Later New Zealand Cricket also issued a statement. They asserted that they had knowledge of the altercation and asserted that it occurred after the game had concluded. They asserted that Khushdil Shah was approached by the two men who were yelling at the Pakistan players. When Khushdil Shah retorted the security team moved in swiftly and prevented the problem from worsening further. The two players were removed from the ground and the incident was dealt with by the stadium authorities. New Zealand Cricket did not turn a blind eye towards the incident and stood solidly behind the Pakistan team.

This game concluded with Pakistan losing by 43 runs. With this loss they also lost the ODI series 3-0. Prior to this they had also played a five match T20I series which New Zealand won 4-1 too. So on the whole it was a difficult tour for the Pakistan cricket team. But now the spotlight has shifted from the performance to the crowd conduct which is being discussed by a lot of cricket fans.

This isn't the first time a player has been abused by spectators. But this has renewed the debate about how essential it is to ensure that players are respected and safe both on the field and off it. The Pakistan Cricket Board stated that players should be respected wherever they play. Whether they are at home or abroad is immaterial. Cricket is a game that brings people together and actions like this spoil the spirit of the sport.

Fans also commented online. Most claimed that it was not right to attack any player due to their nationality. They also complimented Khushdil Shah for remaining composed and attempting to end the ordeal rather than using anger. The PCB appreciated the staff of the stadium for responding promptly and also appreciated New Zealand Cricket for verifying the facts and extending support.

The Pakistan team management message was very clear. They told players work hard and give their best for their country and they should not have to face verbal abuse while performing their job. Cricket boards of all nations need to ensure that this type of behavior does not recur. Security needs to be tight and fans need to be educated to respect players.

Ultimately this event was tragic but it also proved that the Pakistan team will not let something like this pass and will stick together. Khushdil Shah gained attention not for his performance but for having the guts to deal with a difficult situation. The cricket world will pray that in the future all players are treated with respect they deserve.