(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] The pinnacle of cricketing glory turned into a moment of controversy during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final clash between India and Australia at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium.
As Indian batters Virat Kohli and KL Rahul steadied the innings with a crucial partnership, the camera panned to their wives, Anushka Sharma and Athiya Shetty, engrossed in a conversation.
Hindi commentator Jatin Sapru suggested they were perhaps cheering for their husbands’ on-field collaboration.
However, former World Cup champion Harbhajan Singh’s commentary stirred the storm. He remarked, “I don’t know if they’re talking about cricket or films, I don’t think they know much about cricket.”
The comment immediately drew ire from fans, demanding an apology from Harbhajan for his statement, which was perceived as dismissive and derogatory toward the spouses of the cricketers.
Despite the off-field controversy, Kohli and Rahul built a commendable stand, contributing 67 runs together, the highest partnership for the Men in Blue during the ODI World Cup 2023 final. Their efforts propelled Team India to set a target of 241 runs against Pat Cummins’ Australian side on Sunday.
Rahul and Kohli emerged as the top two run-scorers for India in the final, scoring 66 off 107 balls and 54 off 63 deliveries respectively. India skipper Rohit Sharma also played a pivotal role with his swift 47-run innings off 31 balls.