'I Was Almost In Tears:' Australia Captain Mitchell Marsh Reacts To Gulbadin Naib's Injury Controversy

Afghanistan made history by qualifying for the T20 World Cup semi-final for the first time. Afghanistan claimed a thrilling eight-run win (DLS method) against Bangladesh to book their berth in the semis.

While the action-packed game of cricket intrigued fans, the off-field developments were no less exciting. It was Gulbadin Naib who hogged the spotlight, thanks to his unbelievable antics during the game. P

Positioned at first slip, Naib suddenly went down clutching his hamstring at one point during Bangladesh’s innings. Naib’s controversial injury resulted in a brief pause and Australia skipper Mitchell Marsh has now reacted to the incident. Referring to the event, Marsh labeled it as “one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen on a cricket field,” as percricket.com.au.

Gulbadin Naib’s apparent injury occurred right after Afghanistan coach Jonathan Trott signalled his players to slow down the pace of the game. Trott came up with his unique instructions when the DLS method suggested Bangladesh trailing by two runs. Naib fell on the ground right before Noor Ahmad was going to bowl the fifth delivery of the 12th over during Bangladesh’s run chase.

Afghanistan, eventually, went on to beat Bangladesh and their victory resulted in Australia’s elimination from the T20 World Cup 2024. “I was almost in tears laughing and at the end of the day it had no bearing on the game. So we can laugh about it now – but gee it was funny. It was outstanding,” Mitchell Marsh added.

Recalling Gulbadin Naib’s act, Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan said, “He had some cramp. I don’t know what happened to him and I don’t know what’s going on in social media but that doesn’t matter,” as percricket.com.au.

Gulbadin Naib’s unexpected act left the commentary panel in splits. Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull, who was also present in the commentary box, was left baffled as he hinted at the incident as a potential award-worthy act.

Seeing Gulbadin Naib in agony, the on-field umpire called for the game to be halted and it coincided with the arrival of rain. As a result, players of both the sides had to walk off the field.

Following the brief interruption, action resumed with one over reduced from Bangladesh’s innings. Bangladesh were asked to chase a revised target of 114. Najibullah Zadran substituted for Gulbadin Naib until he was back into the game in the 13th over. Later, Naib picked up the wicket of Tanzim Hasan Sakib in the 15th over.

Afghanistan will next face South Africa in the first semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024. The semi-final between Afghanistan and South Africa is scheduled to be played on Thursday, June 27.

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