IND vs PAK: Pakistani Sports Presenter Zainab Abbas Addresses Early Departure From 2023 World Cup In India

Prominent Pakistani sports anchor, Zainab Abbas, has recently clarified the circumstances surrounding her abrupt exit from the 2023 World Cup in India, dispelling earlier speculations linking her departure to alleged ‘anti-India’ social media posts in the past. Zainab had been a part of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) digital team, stationed in Hyderabad for Pakistan’s initial two matches in the prestigious event.

Initial reports suggested that Zainab Abbas was compelled to leave India due to a social media backlash over her controversial posts. However, the ICC stated that her departure during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 was prompted by personal reasons. Her old posts from an unverified X account sparked controversy once it was confirmed that she would be covering the World Cup in India.

Ahead of India’s high-stakes clash with Pakistan, Zainab Abbas took to a different social media platform to disclose the true reasons behind her early exit from the World Cup. In a comprehensive statement, she expressed gratitude for the opportunities to travel and present the sport she passionately loves.

“My daily interactions with everyone during my stay were kind, cheerful, and with a sense of familiarity – just as I had expected. I was neither asked to leave nor was I deported. However, I felt intimidated and scared by the reaction that was unfolding online. And even though there was no immediate threat to my safety, my family, and friends from both sides of the border were concerned. I needed some space and time to reflect on what had transpired,” Zainab wrote.

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— zainab abbas (@ZAbbasOfficial) October 12, 2023

Zainab Abbas Acknowledged The Hurt Caused By The Posts

She acknowledged the hurt caused by the circulated posts and emphasized that they do not reflect her current values or character. Zainab offered a sincere apology to anyone who had been offended and expressed gratitude to those who had shown concern during this challenging period.

“I understand and deeply regret the hurt caused by the posts that were circulated. I wish to make clear that they do not represent my values or who I am as a person today. There is no excuse or space for such language, and I sincerely apologise to anyone who was offended. Also, I am truly grateful to those who were concerned and reached out during this challenging time,” she concluded.

The ICC spokesperson clarified that Zainab Abbas was not deported from India, stating, “Zainab has not been deported; she left for personal reasons.” Before her departure, Zainab was initially assigned to cover Pakistan’s World Cup matches in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad. The World Cup’s esteemed commentary panel includes legendary Pakistani fast bowler Waqar Younis and former Pakistan captain Ramiz Raja.

Babar Azam’s Pakistan cricket team expressed their appreciation for the warm hospitality they received in India during the World Cup, marking their return to the country after a seven-year hiatus. Additionally, the Indian High Commission in Islamabad extended support to Pakistani journalists seeking visas to cover the ongoing World Cup in India.