(Source X)
Salman Butt, the former captain of Pakistan, has strongly rejected claims that the ICC has shown bias towards India in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Criticism within the Pakistan cricket community has been centered on allegations that India received preferential treatment, particularly concerning their predetermined venue for the semifinals in Guyana, regardless of their performance in the Super 8s stage. Several former cricketers, including ex-England captain Michael Vaughan, have questioned the fairness of this decision by the ICC.
Furthermore, members of the Pakistan cricket fraternity have voiced concerns that India has been unfairly advantaged throughout the T20 World Cup. Former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq even went so far as to accuse India of engaging in ball tampering during the competition.
Salman Butt has stepped forward to support India amid criticism from the Pakistan cricket community. Acknowledging the ongoing discussions about the ICC allegedly favoring India, the former Pakistan batsman pointed out that Pakistan could have found themselves in a similar advantageous position had they successfully chased down 42 runs in as many balls against India.
Pakistan exited the tournament in the group stage following defeats to the USA and India. Despite being 72 for 2 after 12 overs against India, they couldn’t chase down 120 runs. Butt went on to commend India for their impressive performance in the current tournament and also praised their robust cricketing structure.
“There’s a lot of talk going around – that the ICC favored them by scheduling their match in Guyana, and things like that. But honestly, if we had scored 42 runs in 42 balls with 8 wickets in hand, all those matches would have been ours. Let’s not think that just because it’s India, we have to say something,” said Salman Butt.
“If we talk professionally and on merit, they have played better cricket. Their cricket pathways are very clear, they have clarity in their roles. Whether it’s their leadership, coaching, or the system to build bench strength, they do all the relevant things right,” he added.
Meanwhile, India is set to face South Africa in the final on Saturday (June 29), to be held in Barbados. India aims to secure their second T20 World Cup title, the first since their victory in 2007. Conversely, South Africa will be making their debut appearance in a World Cup final.
