Wasim Akram Criticizes Abrar Ahmed’s Send-Off to Shubman Gill in Champions Trophy 2025
By Smrati Khare in 4 hours
The India vs Pakistan clash in Champions Trophy 2025 had all the usual intensity, but Pakistan’s struggles continued as they faced yet another defeat in Dubai. During India’s chase, Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed bowled a stunning delivery to dismiss Shubman Gill for 46, but it was his animated send-off that drew sharp criticism from legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram.
While Akram praised the delivery, he slammed Abrar’s celebration, calling it ill-timed and unnecessary given Pakistan’s dire position in the match.
Wasim Akram’s Take: ‘There’s a Time and Place for Celebrations’
Abrar Ahmed’s dismissal of Shubman Gill was a rare bright spot in an otherwise disastrous day for Pakistan, as India was cruising at 100/2 in 17.3 overs. However, his over-the-top send-off did not sit well with Akram, who voiced his disapproval on Sports Central.
“I was very impressed with the ball, I wasn’t impressed with the celebrations. Time aur jagah hoti hain na yaar (There is a time and place for it, buddy). If you are winning, celebrate. When you know the team is stuck, be humble. But that’s not happening. There is no one to tell him that.”
Akram emphasized that such a send-off would have been justified only if Abrar had produced a match-winning performance, not just a single wicket when his team was already under immense pressure.
“Celebration killed everything. When you get seven wickets for five runs, I can understand. It doesn’t look nice. I mean, it doesn’t even look nice on TV.”
India’s Comfortable Chase: Virat Kohli’s Masterclass
After electing to bat first, Pakistan was bowled out for 242, a below-par total in a high-stakes game. Saud Shakeel was the only batter to cross the 50-run mark, with Pakistan struggling against India’s disciplined bowling attack.
India’s response was clinical, with Virat Kohli leading the chase with a brilliant century. Kohli ensured a smooth run chase, and India wrapped up the match comfortably in 42.3 overs, once again dominating their arch-rivals on the global stage.
Was Akram Right to Call Out Abrar Ahmed?
While Abrar Ahmed’s delivery to dismiss Gill was spectacular, his celebration was seen as unnecessary and miscalculated given Pakistan’s struggling position in the game. Akram’s criticism highlights the importance of maintaining composure in high-pressure situations, a lesson Pakistan’s young cricketers may need to learn.
Should players be mindful of their celebrations, especially when their team is losing?
Was Wasim Akram right to criticize Abrar Ahmed, or was the send-off justified?
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