New Delhi: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi defended Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf after a video of him went viral on social media on Tuesday where he can be seen engaging in an ugly fight with a fan in the US. Naqvi has asked the Pakistani fan, who allegedly abused Rauf, to apologise to the cricketer or risk facing legal action.
In the video going viral on social media, Rauf can be seen walking with his wife on a sidewalk when he loses his cool after a verbal exchange with a fan and charges at him. Rauf threatens to hit the fan, asking him if he is an Indian. However, the fan tells him he is a Pakistani while insisting that he was only asking for a picture with the pacer.
The video sparked mixed reactions from fans, however, Naqvi and many others can in support of Rauf. In a strongly-worded statement, the PCB chief said he condemned the incident calling it ‘unacceptable’. He also asked the person involved to apologise to the Pakistan pacer or else PCB would take legal action against him in the US.
“Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual responsible,” Naqvi said in a statement on Twitter.
Strongly condemn the appalling incident involving Haris Rauf. Such actions against our players are completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Those who are involved must immediately apologise to Haris Rauf, failing which we will pursue legal action against the individual…
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) June 18, 2024
Haris Rauf opens up on the incident
Earlier in the day, Rauf too took to social media to share his side of the story and explained what led to the heated altercation with the fan. Rauf hinted in his statement that the fan directed abuse towards his family member which prompted such a response from him. He said as a cricketer he is open to criticism from supporters but no one should drag a player’s family in such matters.
“I decided not to bring this on social media, But now that the video is out, I feel it is necessary to address the situation. As public figures, we are open to receiving all kinds of feedback from the public. They are entitled to support or criticize us. Nevertheless, when it comes to my parent and my family, I will not hesitate to respond accordingly. It is important to show respect towards people and their families, irrespective of their professions,” Rauf said in a statement on X.
— Haris Rauf (@HarisRauf14) June 18, 2024
The incident involving Rauf comes at a time when the Pakistan players are facing intense criticism from all corners for the team’s poor show in the T20 World Cup 2024. Pakistan were one of the favourites for the title heading into the tournament but were eliminated from the group stage after losing their first two matches against USA and India.
Pakistan did manage to beat Canada and Ireland in their remaining two matches but four points were not enough for them to secure qualification for the Super 8. The Pakistan squad will return home soon from the US with some players reportedly heading to the UK for a holiday.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi has threatened legal action against fan, who got involved in a heated altercation with Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf. Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
