Former Pakistan cricketer alleges biased ball usage in India’s World Cup surge

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CRICKET Former Pakistan cricketer alleges biased ball usage in India’s World Cup surge

Festus Chuma 16:45 - 03.11.2023

Former Pakistan cricketer claims ICC gave India special balls aiding their World Cup success; calls for investigation.

Former Pakistan player Hasan Raza has stirred controversy with allegations of biased ball usage favoring Indian bowlers during the ongoing World Cup 2023.

His comments come in the wake of India's emphatic 302-run victory against Sri Lanka at Wankhede Stadium.

India, boasting a formidable bowling lineup with Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj, skittled Sri Lanka for a mere 55 runs after setting a colossal target of 358.

The subcontinental giants secured their win in an environment where the surface was largely perceived as conducive to batting.

Raza voiced his suspicions on a Pakistan news channel after the match that was wacthed by millions across the globe.

“It is surprising that when India is batting the ball behaves normally, but once they start bowling the ball starts to seam and swing. A few DRS decisions have also gone India’s way. No idea if ICC is helping here or the BCCI or the umpires in the middle. An investigation should be conducted," he stated.

This shocking claim by the ex-Test cricketer has not been substantiated with evidence and comes amidst a sensational performance by India's pace attack throughout the tournament.

India's bowling unit has consistently outperformed expectations, not allowing any team to cross the 300-run threshold in the tournament.

Responding to the win and the rhythm of the bowling unit, Mohammed Shami, who was awarded the Man of the Match for his 5/18 against Sri Lanka.

"Our bowling is in good shape and with the kind of rhythm we are in, everyone is enjoying and happy for each other’s success. More importantly, we are bowling as a unit and that’s the result you are getting to see," he shared.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has not made any comments regarding the allegations, and no official complaints have been lodged.

The standard practice in international cricket is to provide the same type of balls for all teams during a tournament, and any deviation would be unprecedented and highly controversial.

The claims by Raza have been viewed by some analysts as an expression of the longstanding rivalry between India and Pakistan, often extending beyond the boundaries of the cricket field.

Nevertheless, the accusations are significant and have the potential to cast a shadow over what has been an exceptional display of cricketing prowess by the Indian team.

Despite the brewing controversy, the focus within the Indian camp remains on their upcoming match against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

A win in this encounter would further cement India's position as a powerhouse in the tournament, having already secured seven wins in as many matches.

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