'Oscar-worthy Acting': Gulbadin Naib's Dramatic Fall After Afghanistan Coach's 'Rain Call' Sparks Memes

Gulbadin Naib stole the spotlight with what commentators dubbed an “Oscar-worthy” performance during a nail-biting T20 World Cup clash against Bangladesh in Kingstown. With a semi-final spot hanging in the balance, Afghanistan had Bangladesh in disarray at 81/7, chasing 116, when rain halted play for the third time. With the DLS system indicating Bangladesh trailing by two runs, coach Jonathan Trott signaled his team to ease the pace.

As Trott gestured his instructions, Gulbadin, stationed at first slip, suddenly grasped his thigh and theatrically collapsed with cramps. This unexpected twist left commentator Simon Doull bewildered, hinting at a potential award-worthy act.

Naib’s apparent injury led to a brief pause, during which the drizzle arrived, and the pitch got covered, much to the dissatisfaction of Afghanistan’s skipper Rashid Khan.

Also Read: ‘Proud of Afghanistan’: Indians Applaud Rashid Khan’s Team’s Historic T20I Semi-finals Entry

Yet, what initially seemed like a serious setback turned into a comedic spectacle when the incident was replayed. The commentary team erupted into laughter, and social media flooded with memes, christening Naib’s antics as “Oscar-worthy.”

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Despite the interruption, play resumed shortly after, with one over trimmed from Bangladesh’s chase and a revised DLS target of 114. Najibullah Zadran substituted for Naib briefly until he returned in the 13th over. Remarkably, Naib swiftly recovered to claim the crucial wicket of Tanzim Hasan in the 15th over.

Also Read: ‘Australia Crying’: Afghanistan’s Win Against Bangladesh Has Indians Celebrating With Memes

Adding to the drama, Naib showcased a sudden burst of energy, sprinting down the ground jubilantly as Afghanistan clinched victory over Bangladesh by 8 runs on DLS, marking their maiden entry into the knockout stage of an ICC tournament.