In a recent move that has stirred controversy, Khalid Mahmood, former chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), while lambasting country's cricket board has called for the retraction of an Independence Day video by the PCB for ignoring legendary Imran Khan's contribution. The video, meant to honor former cricketing legends who have shaped Pakistan's cricketing history, notably omitted any mention or depiction of Imran Khan, the former captain who steered Pakistan to victory in the 1992 World Cup.
Addressing the glaring oversight, Mahmood voiced his concerns on the "Aaj" channel, stating, "This video must be withdrawn by the PCB immediately and released again with proper mention of Imran's contribution to Pakistan cricket."
Drawing a parallel, Mahmood recalled the controversy when the International Cricket Council (ICC) released a World Cup promo video, underrepresenting Babar Azam, which led to widespread criticism. "We should first look at ourselves as to what we are doing with our own heroes then criticise others," said Mahmood, who has occupied numerous significant roles within the board.
Further, he highlighted the importance of distinguishing Imran Khan's political roles from his cricketing achievements. "You may have countless differences of opinion with Imran Khan as a politician or what happened during his government tenure when he was the Prime Minister. But that does not mean you can ignore his role in bringing so many laurels to Pakistan as a player and captain." In Mahmood's perspective, the current climate in Pakistan is such that many spheres, including sports, are being politically scrutinized.
Pointing fingers at the current leadership of the PCB, Mahmood expressed, "This incident just shows that the people running the board are not capable of doing it properly and are politically motivated." He emphasized Imran's pivotal contributions to Pakistan's cricket, especially in clinching the World Cup, and defended the need to recognize his role irrespective of his political journey. "How can you ignore his contribution, whatever his politics might be. I strongly condemn this video and I am really angry at how this has been allowed to happen."
The public awaits the PCB's response or potential corrective actions in light of the growing criticism surrounding the video's content.
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