ICC T20 World Cup: Gulbadain Naib’s sudden fall sparks controversy

As Afghanistan scripted history by entering the semi final stage of an ICC tournament for the first time in their cricketing history, a moment in their final game of the super eights stage evoked laughter and anger in equal measure. Bangladesh had scored 81 for the loss of 7 wickets at the end of 11.4 overs while chasing the target of 116. Afghanistan were ahead by 2 runs in the D/L Method. Had the game been called off at that stage, Afghanistan would have the upper hand. At that time, showers had picked up. Jonathan Trott gave an indication to the players to slow down things to maintain their advantage. 

Afghanistan all-rounder Gulbadain Naib who received the signal fell down immediately complaining about cramps. “I'm not accepting that. Even Rashid doesn't like it. It's just delay tactics. I get it but I don't like that at all. It is unacceptable. They might have gone off anyway for the rain but that's not a good look. I know the Euros are going on in football, you'd be better off there,” commentator Simon Doull said. Gulbadin surprisingly went ahead to bowl 2 overs and even picked up a wicket. He was even seen celebrating their win by running around the field.

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Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan was asked about this incident during the post match presentation. “Gulbadin had some cramps I think, hopefully he'll be alright. That wicket he took was massive for us,” Rashid said.