Two Fans Ejected After Heated Exchange at Mount Maunganui
A tense post-match incident involving Pakistan cricketer Khushdil Shah and a group of spectators marred the conclusion of the third ODI between New Zealand and Pakistan at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The altercation, which took place after the game ended, led to the ejection of two spectators from the venue.
What Happened?
According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Khushdil Shah—who was not part of the playing XI—was targeted by two Afghanistan-origin spectators, who allegedly hurled anti-Pakistan slogans and abusive language in Pashto, a language widely spoken across Afghanistan and parts of Pakistan.
A photo that circulated online showed Khushdil appearing visibly agitated and attempting to confront the individuals, crossing over the boundary rope before being restrained by security personnel. The swift response from ground security prevented the situation from escalating further.
Official Statements and Reaction
The PCB condemned the abusive behavior, stating that the spectators used inappropriate language directed at Khushdil and attempted to provoke a physical confrontation. “The fans involved used offensive language in Pashto and tried to initiate a fight. The PCB formally complained to venue authorities, after which the spectators were escorted out,” the board’s statement read.
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed the incident, telling ESPNcricinfo:
“The incident, which occurred after the game had finished, involved alleged abuse of Pakistan players in a foreign language, thought to be Pashto, and an angry reaction from Khushdil—who responded by confronting the pair.”
The NZC spokesperson also acknowledged the actions taken by ground security to neutralize the situation promptly.
Context: Rising Tensions in Pakistan-Afghanistan Cricket Rivalry
The episode comes amid growing political and cricketing tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with recent clashes between the two nations often accompanied by spectator confrontations and emotionally charged atmospheres. Such behavior has been observed during bilateral matches and ICC tournaments, raising concerns about crowd management and player safety.
Pakistan’s On-Field Struggles Continue
Adding to the post-match drama, Pakistan’s cricket woes deepened as they lost the third and final ODI by 43 runs, resulting in a 3-0 series whitewash by New Zealand. The defeat marked Pakistan’s sixth consecutive ODI loss to the Black Caps within two months, following a 4-1 defeat in the T20I series.
The string of losses caps off a disastrous tour of New Zealand for Pakistan, compounding the disappointment from their underwhelming performance in the Champions Trophy held earlier on home soil.
Key Takeaways:
- Khushdil Shah was involved in a confrontation with abusive spectators during the third ODI in Mount Maunganui.
- Two Afghanistan nationals were ejected after chanting anti-Pakistan slogans and allegedly attempting to provoke the player.
- The PCB and NZC responded swiftly, condemning the behavior and ensuring the incident didn’t escalate.
- The incident highlights the ongoing tensions in Pakistan-Afghanistan cricket relations.
- Pakistan’s on-field performance remains a concern, with another whitewash adding pressure on the team.