Shoaib Akhtar also known as ‘Rawalpindi Express’ was among the most controversial players of his time. He was the first bowler to be recorded bowling at 100 miles per hour, a feat he achieved twice in his career. Post-retirement he now presents his point of view on his YouTube channel in his classic aggressive style. Even his autobiography is titled ‘Controversially Yours’. Let’s take a look at three controversial statements he’s made in the recent past.
#1 On Babar Azam’s English
The former Pakistani pacer addressed Babar and explained why he has failed to become the most recognizable brand. He observed, “I want to unequivocally state that Babar Azam should be Pakistan’s most recognizable brand, but why hasn’t he achieved this? Because he is mute.”
#2 On Virat Kohli’s marriage
Shoaib Akhtar even made a statement on Virat Kohli’s marriage and stated that, if he were in his shoes and family could impact a player’s performance for his team. He said, “If I were in his shoes, I would never have married. I would have just scored runs and enjoyed cricket; these 10-12 years of cricket are a different time that will never be repeated.”
He further added, “I am not saying that getting married is wrong, but if you are playing for India, you would have had a little more fun. Fans are crazy about Kohli and he had to maintain that love he is getting for the last 20 years.”
#3 On David Warner’s Player of the Tournament award
Australia’s David Warner was adjudged Player of the Tournament in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2021. He scored 289 runs with an average of 48 and an excellent strike rate of 147. But the former Pakistani bowler had his own point of view and felt that Babar should have won the award as he was the top scorer with 303 runs at an average of 60 and a strike rate of 126.
