This story is from December 14, 2024

Ramiz Raja cops criticism for baffling statement about Shaheen Afridi in commentary

Ramiz Raja cops criticism for baffling statement about Shaheen Afridi in commentary
Pakistani seamer Shaheen Shah Afridi during the second T20I against South Africa.
During the second T20 match between South Africa and Pakistan on Friday, commentator Ramiz Raja's remark about fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi sparked controversy among viewers. The incident occurred in the 17th over of the second innings when the left-arm seamer was bowling.Rassie van der Dussen hit a powerful shot straight back at Shaheen. The bowler tried to evade the ball, but it struck him between the shoulder and chin.Luckily, Shaheen avoided serious injury and received attention from the team physio and went on to finish the over.
At the time, Raja allegedly commented, "Just missed his face, not sure if it's a good thing or not," which left the viewers perplexed.Many questioned why Raja expressed uncertainty about whether it was positive that the ball missed Shaheen's face.Earlier in the match, Pakistan captain Babar Azam chose to bat first. Pakistan posted a total of 206-5 with Mohammad Rizwan contributing an unbeaten 98 runs and Irfan Khan added a quick 30 off 16 balls. Babar Azam also scored 31 runs from 20 balls.South Africa successfully chased down the target with three balls remaining. Reeza Hendricks played a stellar innings, scoring his first T20I century (117) with Rassie van der Dussen going unbeaten on 66.South Africa now lead the three-match series 2-0.The final match is scheduled for Saturday, December 14, at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.


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