Sport · India Bureau
Akmal Criticises Ayub's Send-off to Sooryavanshi in Asian Games Final
Former Pakistan wicket-keeper Kamran Akmal has slammed Saim Ayub for his aggressive send-off directed at Indian batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket final, suggesting the gesture was motivated by a desire for social media attention.
LSN India ·
Kamran Akmal, a veteran of Pakistan cricket, has launched a public criticism of teammate Saim Ayub's conduct during the high-profile Asian Games 2026 final match. The former wicket-keeper took issue with Ayub's animated send-off following Sooryavanshi's dismissal, viewing the display as unnecessary theatrics rather than genuine sporting conduct.
According to Akmal's assessment, Ayub's behaviour appeared designed primarily to generate attention on social media platforms rather than stemming from competitive intensity. The former Pakistan cricketer expressed disapproval of what he characterised as showmanship at a moment when professionalism should have been the priority.
The incident during the men's cricket final at the Asian Games has drawn scrutiny from cricket observers and former players. Send-offs between opposing players have long been a contentious aspect of international cricket, with debates continuing over where the line should be drawn between competitive intensity and unsporting conduct.
Akmal's comments reflect broader discussions within the cricket community about player behaviour in high-pressure tournaments and the influence of digital platforms on athlete conduct during major sporting events.