WATCH: Muhammad Shahzad’s finger-on-lips celebration after dismissing Stuart Binny sparks IND vs PAK rivalry at Hong Kong Sixes
Pakistan pacer Muhammad Shahzad sparked drama in the Hong Kong Sixes by giving fiery send-offs to Robin Uthappa and Stuart Binny, intensifying the India-Pakistan rivalry.
In a heated moment in the ongoing Hong Kong Sixes, Pakistan fast bowler Muhammad Shahzad gave cold send-offs to the Indian batters Robin Uthappa and Stuart Binny after sending them back into the pavilion. The aggressive celebrations by Shahzad added fuel to the fire of the India-Pakistan rivalry that fans can expect in the game between these two teams. Pakistan Sixes captain Abbas Afridi won the toss and decided to bowl first in the much-awaited game against India Sixes.
Robin Uthappa opened the innings with Bharat Chipli, and both gave India a strong start. Uthappa batted brilliantly, scoring quick runs to take India to 42 in just 2.2 overs. Chipli took some time to get going but supported Uthappa well. It looked like India would post a big total until Muhammad Shahzad turned the match around for Pakistan.
The right-arm pacer dismissed Uthappa at a crucial time and then got rid of Stuart Binny, who managed only four runs. After each wicket, Shahzad gave a cold send-off by putting his finger to his lips, adding drama to the clash. His celebrations typified the passion that always accompanies an India-Pakistan game.
Tensions Flare Amid Political Backdrop
The heated scenes came during continuing political tensions between India and Pakistan that have impacted their cricket relationship. Players from both sides reportedly refused to shake hands during the Asia Cup and the Women’s World Cup, and PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi taking the trophy with him further fueled controversy. In this environment, Shahzad’s send-offs acted as the spark that reignited on-field rivalry between the two nations.
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In the match, India Sixes finished at 86 for four in six overs. Uthappa top-scored with 28 runs off a mere 11 balls, while Bharat Chipli and Dinesh Karthik made 24 and 17 runs respectively. A bright start was undone by the ferocious spell of Muhammad Shahzad as Pakistan clawed their way back into the match to make the India-Pakistan encounter one of the most breathtaking moments of the tournament.
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