Former Pakistan cricket team captain Inzamam-ul-Haq has sparked controversy by accusing Indian fast bowler Arshdeep Singh of “ball tampering” during the T20 World Cup 2024. Inzamam claimed that Arshdeep’s reverse swing, which was instrumental in India’s victory over Australia in the Super 8 stage, was a result of some “serious work on the ball”. In response, Indian captain Rohit Sharma dismissed these allegations, urging critics to “open their minds” and understand the playing conditions in sunny weather.
Inzamam hit back at Rohit’s remarks, asserting that Pakistan, which pioneered the art of reverse swing, does not need to be taught about it. He stated, “First thing is that he (Rohit) has admitted that it’s happening. So it means what we observed is correct. Second thing, Rohit Sharma ko humein batane ki zarurat nahi padni chahiye ke reverse swing kis tarah hota hai, kitni dhoop mei hota hai, kis pitch pe hota hai. Jo sikhane wale hain unko nahi yeh cheez sikhaya karte (there is no need for Rohit to tell us how reverse swing happens, under how much sun, on what pitch; you don’t teach something to someone who actually taught it to the world). Tell him it’s not right to talk these things,” said Inzamam on 24 News.
Rohit Sharma had previously addressed Inzamam’s accusations with a straightforward response, emphasizing the dry and sunny conditions in which the matches were being played. He explained that all teams were experiencing reverse swing and that it was crucial to understand the impact of local conditions, rather than jumping to conclusions. “Abhi kya jawab du iska mein bhai (what answer should I give, brother). Wickets are so dry (here) as you are playing in a sunny weather. All teams are getting reverse (swing). Sometimes dimaag ko kholna zaroori hai (Need to open your mind). You need to understand what the conditions are. This is not Australia or England. That’s what I will say,” Rohit remarked.
Despite the controversy, India advanced to the T20 World Cup 2024 final after a decisive victory over England, setting up a highly anticipated clash in the final.
