Iftikhar Ahmed issues massive statement after on-field altercation with Asad Shafiq

Pakistani all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed issued an apology to senior batter Asad Shafiq for his on-field behavior during the Sindh Premier League (SPL) T20 match. Iftikhar Ahmed expressed regret for his heated verbal exchange with Asad Shafiq during the recent match.

During the T20 match between Karachi Ghazi and Larkana Challengers, Iftikhar had a heated exchange with Shafiq. The incident occurred in the eighth over of the Larkana Challengers’ innings when Shafiq was dismissed by the Karachi Ghazi spinner on Wednesday.

Watch – Iftikhar Ahmed And Asad Shafiq Engaged In Heated Argument

In a widely circulated video across social media platforms, Iftikhar Ahmed gestured towards Asad Shafiq after taking the wicket. The Larkana Challengers skipper didn’t take Ahmed’s behavior lightly and approached him, leading to a heated argument.

Umpires and teammates needed to intervene to restore order to the match. Despite their efforts, Iftikhar persisted in his aggression towards Shafique. The incident drew criticism from Pakistan cricket fans, prompting Iftikhar Ahmed to issue an apology.

Iftikhar Ahmed got aggressive with Asad Shafiq

Was this a bit on the unprofessional side? Who’s wrong here? #Iftimania pic.twitter.com/QIqDGdcFSl

— Alisha Imran (@Alishaimran111) January 31, 2024

Shouldn’t Have Reacted The Way I Did – Iftikhar Ahmed

Iftikhar Ahmed took to the social media platform ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) to issue a public apology for his on-field conduct. In a statement, he acknowledged the inappropriate nature of his behavior during the game, emphasizing his longstanding respect for his fellow player.

“I am extremely apologetic for my behavior in the field today. I shouldn’t have reacted the way I did in the heat of the moment. I’ve apologized to @asadshafiq1986 Bhai in person after the match & have always held great regard for him. We have played a lot of cricket together,” Iftikhar posted.

I am extremely apologetic for my behaviour in the field today. I shouldn’t have reacted the way I did in the heat of the moment. I’ve apologised to @asadshafiq1986 Bhai in person after the match & have always held great regards for him. We have played a lot of cricket together.

— Iftikhar Ahmad (@IftiMania) January 31, 2024

Karachi Ghazis claimed a commanding 68-run victory. Iftikhar Ahmed showcased his batting prowess, scoring 69 runs from 43 deliveries, featuring five boundaries and an equal number of sixes. He also added a 92-run partnership with Muneeb Wasif for the fifth wicket.

In response, the Larkana Challengers collapsed to 25/4 within the first 6 overs. Yahya Shah, Bismillah Khan, Zeeshan Malik, and Sudails Ulfat failed to make an impact. Despite the efforts of Tayyab Tahir and Asad Shafiq, the Larkana Challengers were bowled out for 92 runs.

Iftikhar Ahmed’s Last Appearance for Pakistan Was in New Zealand

Iftikhar Ahmed was last seen in action during the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, where the Shaheen Afridi-led team suffered a 4-1 defeat. Iftikhar managed to score just 24 runs in five innings at a disappointing average of 8.8 and a strike rate of 86.27.

The 33-year-old made a significant contribution with the ball in Pakistan’s victory in the fifth and final T20I against the Black Caps. The off-spinner took three wickets for 24 runs in the decisive match, helping the Men in Green secure a 42-run victory in Christchurch.

He will be next seen in action during the ninth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The all-rounder will represent the Multan Sultans in the upcoming tournament. The Multan Sultans were runners-up in the last two editions of Pakistan’s T20 tournament.

Also read: Watch: Iftikhar Ahmed and Asad Shafiq engaged in ugly fight during SPL 2024