In the world of cricket, controversies often emerge from unexpected situations, and Pakistan cricket is no stranger to drama. Recently, the ongoing Test series against England in Multan became the backdrop for a social media uproar surrounding an incident involving umbrellas. With the combination of high-profile players, broadcasters, and the intense heat of Multan, this incident has sparked fierce discussions among fans and commentators alike.
What Happened with the Umbrella?
The first Test match is taking place in Multan, and during the third day of play, an unusual controversy unfolded. The event was marked by a midday broadcast where Pakistani anchor Zainab Abbas, alongside commentator Nasir Hussain and former cricketer Aamer Sohail, hosted a segment from the ground. With live cricket action and the scorching sun overhead, all three were provided umbrellas to shield themselves from the intense heat.
However, the situation took a turn when Zainab Abbas posted photos from the show on her social media platforms. The images quickly went viral, leading to a backlash directed at both her and Aamer Sohail. The crux of the criticism stemmed from the perception that Zainab and Sohail appeared somewhat aloof, as they were seen being attended to by people holding umbrellas for them, while Nasir Hussain, a former England captain, handled his umbrella himself.
Public Reaction and Criticism
Fans were quick to voice their discontent on social media, pointing out what they perceived as a disparity in mindsets. Comments ranged from light-hearted jabs to harsh criticisms, with users implying that Zainab and Sohail were behaving as if they belonged to royalty, contrasting their behavior with that of their English counterpart. Several tweets highlighted the cultural differences and the irony of needing assistance in such a straightforward task as holding an umbrella.
“It’s hot in Multan! With the lovely @nassercricket & Aamer Sohail talking all things cricket.”
— zainab abbas (@ZAbbasOfficial)
“The foreigner holding his umbrella himself while PAKs Male & Female both are so elite & superior in their mindsets.”
— CRICKETEER UPDATES GIFT???????? (@786_naqi)
Impact on the Match
While the uproar about umbrellas stole the limelight for a moment, the cricket match itself was not without its own challenges. The conditions in Multan have proven particularly punishing for the Pakistani bowlers. Over the course of the Test, England amassed an impressive total of 823 runs within just 150 overs. Star players Harry Brook and Joe Root demonstrated their skill, with Brook securing his first triple century and Root achieving a remarkable sixth double century.
By the fourth day, Pakistan faced a steep uphill battle, trailing by 267 runs after their first innings. As the match progressed, Pakistan struggled again, losing six wickets for only 152 runs by day’s end, putting them on the brink of defeat. The ongoing test not only illuminated the contrasting performances of the teams but also highlighted the intense pressure on the Pakistani players amid external distractions.
Conclusion
This incident serves as a reminder of the passionate nature of cricket fans and the heightened scrutiny faced by players and broadcasters in the limelight. While umbrellas may seem trivial, they encapsulate a broader narrative about expectations, cultural nuances, and the challenges that arise when sport and entertainment collide. As the Multan Test unfolds, all eyes will remain glued to both the cricketing action and the ongoing discussions in the realm of Pakistani cricket.
