Pakistan’s remarkable comeback series victory against England was marred by a post-match controversy involving legendary commentator Ramiz Raja and skipper Shan Masood. Raja’s interview with Masood drew criticism on social media, prompting a strong reaction from pacer Mohammad Amir.
After Pakistan’s opening Test defeat to England, they rallied to win the next two matches and secure a 2-1 series triumph. However, Raja’s post-match interview with Masood raised eyebrows.
“There are two things that you will see. One is how to play on seaming conditions and the other thing is if it is a one-off. How did you achieve this, six losses in a row?” Raja asked Masood.
Masood responded: “Ramiz bhai, we needed this win. The nation needed this win and I am really happy for Pakistan.”
The interview sparked outrage on social media, with many fans criticizing Raja’s tone and questioning his motives. Amir also took to Twitter to express his displeasure, calling Raja’s comments “unprofessional.”
Raja later issued a clarification, stating that his intention was not to belittle Masood but to highlight the team’s struggles in recent months.
Masood, breaking his silence on the matter, said he holds no grudges against Raja. “There are no hard feelings from my side,” he told BBC Stumped. “I’ve always been an open book in front of the media and tried to conduct myself in the best possible way.”
Masood also addressed the absence of Babar Azam from the second and third Tests against England. He expressed hope that the break would benefit Azam in the upcoming white-ball series against Australia.
