Table of Contents
The 2023 ODI World Cup has not only been a spectacle of cricketing excellence but has also witnessed some heated exchanges off the field. The latest controversy involves former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Hafeez, who faced strong criticism from former England captain Michael Vaughan for his remarks about Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli.
Mohammad Hafeez terms Virat Kohli as ‘selfish’
Hafeez’s comments came in the wake of Kohli’s remarkable 49th ODI century in the recently-concluded fixture against South Africa. While many celebrated Kohli’s achievement, Hafeez offered a dissenting opinion, suggesting that Kohli’s approach was ‘selfish.’ He accused Kohli of slowing down in his innings, apparently in a quest to reach his personal milestone of equalling legendary Sachin Tendulkar‘s record of 49 ODI hundreds. Hafeez argued that Kohli should have been more aggressive in the death overs, opting for big shots instead of taking singles.
“I saw a sense of selfishness in Virat Kohli’s batting, and this has happened for the third time in this World Cup. In the 49th over, he was looking to take a single to reach his own hundred, and he didn’t put the team first. Rohit Sharma could have played selfish cricket too, but he didn’t because he is playing for Team India and not for himself,” said Hafeez during a chat show.
Also READ: ‘Yes, Kohli is selfish’: Venkatesh Prasad’s hot take after Virat Kohli slams 49th ton in IND vs SA game – ODI World Cup 2023
Michael Vaughan slams Mohammad Hafeez
Hafeez’s comments triggered a wave of reaction on social media, with many fans and cricket pundits expressing their disagreement with his assessment. Among those critical of Hafeez’s remarks was Vaughan, who took to social media to voice his disapproval. Vaughan, the former English captain turned cricket commentator, dismissed Hafeez’s comments as ‘utter nonsense’ and praised Kohli for his responsible approach on a challenging pitch.
In a tweet posted on his social media handle, Vaughan stated, “Come on @MHafeez22 !!! India has hammered 8 teams playing great cricket… @imVkohli now has 49 tons, and his last was an anchor role innings on a tricky pitch… His team won by over 200!!!! This is utter nonsense… #CWC2023 #India #Pakistan.”
Come on @MHafeez22 !!! India have hammered 8 teams playing great cricket .. @imVkohli now has 49 tons and his last was an anchor role innings on a tricky pitch .. His team won by over 200 !!!! This is utter nonsense .. #CWC2023 #India #Pakistan https://t.co/Foh3hhz3RE
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) November 7, 2023
