Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali has criticized Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami for his negative remarks about Inzamam ul Haq. Shami had referred to Inzamam’s accusations of ball-tampering by Indian bowlers during the 2024 T20 World Cup as ‘cartoongiri’ (meaning foolishness).
Basit did not approve of Shami’s words and criticized him for how he spoke about the Pakistani cricket legend. Basit also mentioned that Shami should have chosen his words more carefully.
“When Shami mentions Inzi bhai and refers to him as a cartoon, it’s not appropriate. Inzamam has been a leader and captain for our country. Shami, the way you expressed yourself wasn’t good. We admire your bowling, but you should have been more careful with your words. You didn’t choose them wisely, and it upset me,” Ali shared on his YouTube channel.
Moving forward, Basit insisted that Shami should show respect to Inzamam because he is more experienced. He also mentioned that if Shami doesn’t show respect, cricket will cause him more pain than joy.
“If you feel Inzi bhai made a mistake, express it politely. Don’t insult him by calling him names. Show some respect. He’s been in the game longer than you. You should honor those who have more experience. If you don’t, cricket will make you cry most of the time, only letting you be happy for a short period. So, please don’t act this way, I’m asking you personally,” he continued.
“Be more cautious, you shouldn’t speak carelessly. No matter what question is asked, you keep giving inappropriate answers. I’m using the correct term, ‘behuda ‘. You’ve used ‘behuda’ language. Your elders probably never taught you this,” he concluded.
Previously, Salman Butt criticized Shami for his choice of words against Inzamam, calling them ‘uncalled for’. Meanwhile, Mohammed Shami is recovering at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) following a successful surgery for his ankle injury. He last played for India in the ODI World Cup 2023, where he was the top wicket-taker with 24 wickets. Shami is keen to recover in time for the crucial Border Gavaskar Trophy in Australia and the Champions Trophy 2025.
