Gulbadin Naib’s Funny Hamstring Act Helps Afghanistan Reach T20 World Cup Semifinals

In a thrilling T20 World Cup match in Saint Lucia, Afghanistan secured a spot in the semifinals after an eight-run win over Bangladesh. The game was interrupted by rain, and during this time, Afghanistan’s all-rounder Gulbadin Naib humorously pretended to have a hamstring injury to delay the proceedings.

Australia’s captain Mitchell Marsh found Naib’s act extremely funny, saying, “I was almost in tears laughing and at the end of the day it had no bearing on the game. So we can laugh about it now – but gee it was funny. It was outstanding.”

Despite the antics, Naib played a crucial role by delivering two vital overs and taking a wicket. He was also seen celebrating energetically after Afghanistan’s victory. Naib later posted a picture on social media with team physiotherapist Prasanth Panchada, captioned “wonders can happen,” adding to the humor.

Afghanistan’s coach Jonathan Trott was seen on television asking the team to slow down the action, and Naib’s act was a response to this. Although Rashid Khan mentioned that Naib had a cramp, he was not impressed by the sudden collapse.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) may review Naib’s actions, as their playing conditions state that it is “unfair for any fielder to waste time.” The maximum penalty for such an act is a two-match ban, though a first and final warning is more likely.

Australia needed Bangladesh to win to have a chance at qualifying for the semifinals, but Afghanistan’s victory ended their hopes. Marsh commented on the game, saying, “We watched it as a group. It was obviously a pretty amazing game, wasn’t it? A lot of twists and turns.” He added, “We were all flat when the final wicket fell. We were desperate to continue on in the tournament. But fair play to Afghanistan – they beat us and they beat Bangladesh and they deserve to be in the semi-finals.”