While expected to play a key role in their semi-final clash against South Africa, Naib’s on-field behaviour during the Bangladesh match has drawn criticism and amusement in equal measure.
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During the crucial final overs of Bangladesh’s chase, with rain threatening to end the match prematurely and send Australia through, Naib dramatically collapsed on the field, clutching his leg.
This occurred shortly after television cameras caught England coach Jonathan Trott, in charge of Bangladesh, urging his players to slow down the flow of the game due to the DLS target coming into play.
While Afghan captain Rashid Khan later attributed Naib’s fall to cramps, the incident raised eyebrows, particularly given Naib’s subsequent energetic performance.
He bowled two crucial overs, taking a wicket and celebrating with gusto, before joining his teammates in jubilant celebrations upon securing the semi-final berth.
Australian all-rounder Mitch Marsh, whose team was eliminated as a result of Afghanistan’s win, described Naib’s actions as “one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen on a cricket field.” Marsh, initially disappointed by the result, told Australian media, “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.”
Adding fuel to the fire, Naib later posted a photo on social media featuring himself alongside the team physiotherapist, accompanied by the caption “wonders can happen.”
Despite the controversy, Naib is expected to recover from his reported injury and be available for selection in the semi-final.
The incident has sparked debate about gamesmanship within cricket. While some see Naib’s actions as clever tactics, others deem them unsporting. Regardless of individual interpretations, the episode has undoubtedly added another layer of intrigue to Afghanistan’s historic World Cup campaign.