by: Atika Mehboob TN Sport Pakistan:
Mohammad Rizwan, a Pakistan cricket player, recently faced criticism for praying on the cricket field during the ICC World Cup 2023. He had earlier dedicated his century to the residents of Gaza after a commendable performance against Sri Lanka. This gesture had stirred some debates in the Indian media. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) chose not to penalise Rizwan, emphasising that his dedication was a personal act made off the field.
Nevertheless, Vineet Jindal, an advocate with India’s Supreme Court, has now lodged a formal complaint with the ICC. He urges the governing body to take stringent action against Rizwan for praying on the pitch during Pakistan’s inaugural World Cup match against the Netherlands in Hyderabad.
Jindal’s complaint reads: “Pakistan Cricket Player, Mohammad Rizwan, was observed offering prayers on the field during the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 opener against the Netherlands in Hyderabad. His act, amidst a diverse audience including many Indians, is viewed by some as a pronounced display of his religious beliefs, which they feel contrasts the essence of the sport.”
It’s pertinent to mention that Jindal had previously registered a complaint against Zainab Abbas, a Pakistani presenter, accusing her of making “anti-Hindu” remarks. Following this, Abbas exited India and subsequently tendered an apology. https://x.com/khelshel/status/1713563252280500670?s=20
