The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium played host to Pakistan’s second consecutive defeat in the ICC World Cup 2023, a 62-run loss against the formidable Australians. However, it wasn’t just the match that had fans talking. The post-game show featured a moment that added a touch of humour and controversy to the proceedings.
After the game, former Pakistani cricketer Waqar Younis, now a prominent voice in cricket commentary, found himself in the company of two ecstatic former Australian World Cup victors, Shane Watson and Aaron Finch. Australia’s thunderous victory had Finch and Watson beaming with pride. Still, Waqar wasn’t about to be drowned in the Aussie celebration.
In a moment that had the panel and viewers in splits, Younis, with a cheeky grin, asserted his dual allegiance. He reminded everyone that he isn’t just Pakistani – he’s half Australian too. This unexpected claim stems from his marriage to Faryal, a Pakistani-Australian doctor, and their residence in the Australian town of Castle Hill, New South Wales.
Waqar’s bold and somewhat controversial remark, made during a Star Sports interview, left Finch and Watson amused. “I’m a half-Aussie; don’t just call me a Pakistani,” jested Waqar cheekily on Star Sports.
Waqar Younis, a former Pakistani pacer known for his lightning-fast inswinging yorkers, is indeed a figure of cricketing legend. With an illustrious career that spans 14 years, he was responsible for 416 ODI and 373 Test wickets. Today, he stands as a bridge between the game and its passionate followers as a cricket commentator and broadcaster for the World Cup.
Waqar’s playful remark, which he likely intended as a humorous quip, didn’t sit well with a majority of Pakistani fans. While some saw it as light-hearted banter, others considered it a source of concern.
In a world where cricket is not just a sport but an emotion, fans often hold their favourite players close to their hearts. The remark, seen as wavering in allegiance, sparked discussions and divided opinions among fans.
One netizen pointed out, “You are the first Pakistani; always remember that.” Another emphasized, “While you may have gained Australian citizenship, Waqar Bhai, you are representing Pakistan in the broadcasting panel.”
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Meanwhile, Australia’s victory was marked by a second-highest opening partnership in World Cup history. The Australian duo of David Warner and Mitchell Marsh created fireworks with their performances. David Warner’s magnificent 164 and Mitchell Marsh’s solid 121 set the stage for a massive total of 367 runs.
Pakistan, despite a promising start provided by Abdullah Shafique and Imam-Ul-Haq’s explosive opening and a commendable 134-run stand, couldn’t withstand the Australian onslaught. Leg-spinner Adam Zampa’s brilliant spell, capturing four crucial wickets, turned the tides irrevocably in Australia’s favour.
As the Aussies clinched victory on the field, Waqar Younis, once feared by batsmen, demonstrated that his wit is as sharp as his inswinging yorkers once were.
