Abhishek Sharma (AP Photo) NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has sparked fresh controversy at the Men’s T20 World Cup, launching another scathing attack on India opener Abhishek Sharma as he defiantly stood by his explosive prediction that India would not reach the semi-finals.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SIGN UP NOW!Amir, who has been at the center of intense debate over his outspoken views, insisted that his criticism was purely based on cricketing judgment and not disrespect. But his remarks about Abhishek’s technique and India’s chances only added fuel to an already heated rivalry.
All about Abhishek Sharma’s solitary net session in Ahmedabad
“As for Abhishek, I just said he doesn’t have a defensive game. A player who can’t stop the ball, what else do I call him?” Amir said in Haarna Mana Hai show. “Just tell me what to call him when he can’t line up and defend the ball.The left-arm watcher had earlier termed the young opener as a “beater”, questioning his ability to survive against quality bowling. He also doubled down on his bigger claim — that India will not reach the semi-finals despite entering the Super 8 stage as the defending champions.
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Explaining his reasoning, Amir claimed that the other opponents, particularly South Africa and the West Indies, are currently the stronger sides.“When I look at how India and South Africa play cricket, I think South Africa is better,” Amir said. “I was just speaking to that effect.Amir also hit out at former Indian cricketers who criticized his remarks, accusing them of hypocrisy and using abusive language against Pakistan.“I have just given my opinion. We have always praised India when they have played well. One should respect one’s opinion,” he said. “When I talk about the things some former Indian players say, they use such profanity. They abuse Pakistan. We have never done that…just tell me once if I have ever used profanity against India.”The former pacer said differences of opinion are part of sport and should not cause outrage.“Learn to respect someone’s opinion. There are 100 people in the world; not everyone can have the same opinion. We played this sport so we know how it works,” he added.Suryakumar Yadav-led India have been placed in a tough Super 8 group alongside South Africa, Zimbabwe and the West Indies.
