Drama At Shan Masood's PC As Journalist Stumps Pak Skipper With Blunt Remark: 'Khuddari Nhi Aati Ki Haar Gye?'

Drama At Shan Masood's PC As Journalist Stumps Pak Skipper With Blunt Remark: 'Khuddari Nhi Aati Ki Haar Gye?' (Source: PCB/AP)

Pakistan cricket team has been subjected to heavy criticism after a string of dismal performances in the last few years. The team hit a new low when they suffered a 2-0 whitewash at home against Bangladesh. The team would have hoped for a change in fortunes after Shan Masood 's promotion as the captain, however, things went from bad to worse as he lost five consecutive Tests since taking over. Pakistan suffered a 3-0 defeat to Australia before losing to Bangladesh.

Masood would look to turn things around when Pakistan host England for a three-match Test series at home. Ahead of the series, set to get underway on October 7, the Pakistan captain attended a press conference where he was stumped by a cunning question from a journalist who asked if he ever thought about stepping away from the team after recent struggles.

The reporter, identified as Javed Iqbal inquired, “Shan, abhi aapne bola ki jab tak voh mauka de rahe hain toh aap avail karenge. Par kya kabhi khud se khuddari nahi aati ki haar gaye, performance nahi ho rahi, toh chhod k chale jaaye?” (Shan, you just said that as long as you're given the opportunity, you'll avail it. But doesn't it come from within to step aside when you've been losing and the performances aren't there?)

PCB Director of Media and Communication Sami ul Hasan came to Masood's rescue and asked the media persons to treat the Pakistan captain with respect. “Pakistan ka captain baitha hai, aap bilkul sawal karein but please show respect and particularly I am referring Javed. It was not the appropriate way of asking Pakistan captain the question that you asked,” the media manager said.

Shan Masood Extends Support To Players Meanwhile, Masood extended support to the players and said that criticism is bound to come by after poor performances but it is important to back the team in tough times.

“The losses hurt deeply, but it is vital to support the team, es­pecially during difficult times,” Masood emphasized. “Criticism is natural, but if we are to move forward, we must back our play­ers. Consistency is key to long-term success,” Masood said.

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