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The two former on-field rivals were seen in deep discussion after the match, and the moment was captured on video from a distance, followed by the footage making its way to social media.
Harbhajan looked very animated during the discussion, trying to explain something to his counterpart from Pakistan, though it remains unclear what the subject of their talks was.
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The controversy had erupted when Akmal made the controversial comment during Pakistan’s T20 World Cup match against India, who won the group-stage match by six runs. Pakistan were later eliminated from the tournament.
Reacting to Akmal’s comment, Harbhajan had said: “Kamran Akmal should understand that there is no need to say anything about anyone’s religion and make fun of it. I would like to ask Kamran Akmal if he knows the history of Sikhs, who are Sikhs and all the work that Sikhs have done to save your community, your mothers and sisters. Ask this from your ancestors, at 12 o’clock the Sikhs used to attack Mughals and rescue your mothers and sisters, so stop talking nonsense.”
Akmal later apologised for his words.
“I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to @harbhajan_singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry. #Respect #Apology,” Akmal had posted on X after the backlash.
As for the WCL match on Saturday, Pakistan defeated India by 68 runs.
Akmal top-scored for Pakistan with his 40-ball 77, with his opening partner Sharjeel Khan (72 off 30) as the other star batsman. The duo added 145 runs for the first wicket in 10.5 overs. Sohaib Maqsood later scored 51 off 26 balls.
In response, India could only reach 175 for 9, despite Suresh Raina’s 40-ball 52 and Ambati Rayudu’s 23-ball 39. Wahab Riaz and Shoaib Malik took three wicket each to help Pakistan restrict India.
