Kamran Akmal Apologises After Racist Remark about Arshdeep Singh Draws Harbhajan Singh’s Ire

After former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal made a distasteful comment regarding Arshdeep Singh, the talented Indian fast bowler, it sparked a significant backlash from the cricketing community. The incident occurred during the highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan match at the T20 World Cup, held in New York.

Harbhajan Singh, a stalwart spinner for India’s World Cup-winning team, responded fiercely to Akmal’s disparaging remarks about Arshdeep Singh’s religion. In a scathing rebuke, Harbhajan condemned Akmal’s comments as ‘filthy’ and called for him to be more mindful of Sikh history.

The controversy erupted when Kamran Akmal, as part of a panel discussing the India-Pakistan clash, made a racially insensitive joke insinuating that Sikhs should not be given responsibilities late at night. The remarks incited widespread criticism across social media.

India’s victory over Pakistan was highlighted by explosive batting from Virat Kohli and disciplined bowling, particularly from the fast bowlers. Arshdeep Singh’s pivotal performance in the final over of the game secured a crucial six-run win for India, overshadowing the off-field controversies surrounding Kamran Akmal’s ill-judged comments.

Following the public outrage and the stern warning from Harbhajan Singh, Kamran Akmal issued a public apology to Harbhajan and the entire Sikh community. Akmal expressed regret over his inappropriate remarks, stressing his respect for Sikhs globally and emphasizing that his comments were never intended to cause offense.