Former Pakistan fast bowler Umar Gul has apologised to Pakistan spinner Shadab Khan over his remarks regarding Shadab’s injury during the ODI World Cup 2023.
During the Pakistan vs South Africa clash of the World Cup, Shadab Khan was subbed off by Usama Mir due to a concussion. He was hit on the head and had to leave the field during the match.
However, Gul had his reservations about Shadab’s injury and openly asked the then-vice captain’s condition. He said that you’ve made an excuse to save yourself.
"We're uncertain about the nature of his injury, but doubts arise when you fall, claim a concussion, leave the field, and then return. The physio checks you, and after some time, you're back out there. You engage in conversations with people and then depart. Later, when the match becomes tense and you realize it's favouring us, you sit outside in the dugout, cheering. It implies you've made an excuse; you've saved yourself. So, naturally, people will question it," Gul had remarked on a local news channel.
Watch the Video Here:
In an interview with Pakistan Cricket, Gul acknowledged his mistake later and apologised to Shadab after the recently concluded Pakistan Super League (PSL).
"After the PSL, I immediately approached him [Shadab] because the actual scenario was that he had suffered two concussions within a year, and the third incident occurred during the World Cup. The doctor advised him to rest to prevent any serious repercussions," said Gul.
"Upon learning the truth and meeting him for the first time in the training camp, I went straight to him and expressed my regret. I said, 'Shadab, it was never my intention to cause you harm, and naturally, as a Pakistani, I felt at that moment that the team needed you.' So, it was said out of necessity for the team, but otherwise, Shadab is a wonderful individual, and we have a good relationship. Our families are also close. However, I felt remorseful for my earlier statement, and I apologized to Shadab for it," he added.
Shadab accepted Gul’s apology and took to Instagram to forgive him for his remarks. He shared a post with a captain: "It takes a brave man to accept his mistake. Respect you Gulli bhai. Always stay happy”.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK: