Whereas anticipated to play a key position of their semi-final conflict in opposition to South Africa, Naib’s on-field behaviour throughout the Bangladesh match has drawn criticism and amusement in equal measure.
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Throughout the essential ultimate overs of Bangladesh’s chase, with rain threatening to finish the match prematurely and ship Australia by way of, Naib dramatically collapsed on the sector, clutching his leg.
This occurred shortly after tv cameras caught England coach Jonathan Trott, in command of Bangladesh, urging his gamers to decelerate the stream of the sport because of the DLS goal coming into play.
Whereas Afghan captain Rashid Khan later attributed Naib’s fall to cramps, the incident raised eyebrows, notably given Naib’s subsequent energetic efficiency.
He bowled two essential overs, taking a wicket and celebrating with gusto, earlier than becoming a member of his teammates in jubilant celebrations upon securing the semi-final berth.
Australian all-rounder Mitch Marsh, whose group was eradicated on account of Afghanistan’s win, described Naib’s actions as “one of many funniest issues I’ve ever seen on a cricket subject.” Marsh, initially disenchanted by the consequence, informed Australian media, “I used to be nearly in tears laughing and on the finish of the day it had no bearing on the sport. So we are able to snicker about it now – however gee it was humorous. It was excellent.”
Including gasoline to the fireplace, Naib later posted a photograph on social media that includes himself alongside the group physiotherapist, accompanied by the caption “wonders can occur.”
Regardless of the controversy, Naib is anticipated to get better from his reported harm and be accessible for choice within the semi-final.
The incident has sparked debate about gamesmanship inside cricket. Whereas some see Naib’s actions as intelligent techniques, others deem them unsporting. No matter particular person interpretations, the episode has undoubtedly added one other layer of intrigue to Afghanistan’s historic World Cup marketing campaign.
