CWC 2023: Indian industrialist Ratan Tata refutes the claims of announcing Rs 10 crore reward for Afghanistan spinner Rashid Khan

The ODI World Cup 2023 has proven to be an extraordinary chapter in the story of the Afghanistan cricket team as their underdog squad has taken the tournament by storm, earning the admiration and support of cricket fans across the globe with their exceptional performance. The Afghan side’s most recent remarkable triumphs in the world event came against formidable opponents like England and Pakistan and marked a new rise in their cricketing journey.

ICC penalizes two Afghan players

Nonetheless, the path to Afghanistan’s success has not been devoid of obstacles. Recently, the ICC penalized two Afghan players, Asghar Afghan and Rashid Khan, for violating ICC regulations during their match against Pakistan.

Rashid Khan’s violation of the ICC Code of Conduct

Rashid, in particular, found himself in the spotlight as he was fined under Article 2.1.7 of the ICC’s code of conduct, which deals with “using language, actions, or gestures that disparage or could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batsman upon their dismissal during an International Match.”

Unverified reports of Rashid displaying Indian flag

Furthermore, there were unverified reports suggesting that Rashid had also displayed the Indian flag during the team’s celebrations after victory over Pakistan, leading to a fine of Rs 55 lakhs. However, the authenticity of these reports remains unclear.

Claims of Ratan Tata offering Rs 10 crore reward to Rashid

Amidst these developments, a message started circulating, claiming that Indian industrialist Ratan Tata had generously announced a Rs 10 Crore reward for Afghanistan spinner Rashid in response to the fines imposed by the ICC. This news created a buzz among cricket fans and enthusiasts alike. But the claim turned out to be false when Ratan Tata personally addressed the issue by taking to his official social media platform.

Also READ: Fans criticize PCB chief Zaka Ashraf for leaking Babar Azam’s WhatsApp chats

Ratan Tata’s official statement denying the reward announcement

In a candid statement, Ratan Tata clarified that he had no connection to cricket and had made no such announcement. He urged people not to believe in WhatsApp forwards and unverified videos spreading misinformation.

“I have made no suggestions to the ICC or any cricket authority about any cricket player regarding a fine or reward. I have no connection to cricket whatsoever. Please do not believe WhatsApp forwards and videos of such nature unless they come from my official platforms,” read Ratan Tata’s official message.

I have made no suggestions to the ICC or any cricket faculty about any cricket member regarding a fine or reward to any players.

I have no connection to cricket whatsoever

Please do not believe WhatsApp forwards and videos of such nature unless they come from my official…

— Ratan N. Tata (@RNTata2000) October 30, 2023

Rashid’s 100th ODI appearance and pre-match felicitation

While the false claims of Ratan Tata’s reward announcement were quickly debunked, Rashid had a significant milestone in his cricketing career to celebrate. He marked his 100th One Day International (ODI) appearance for Afghanistan during a game against Sri Lanka. This special occasion was commemorated with a pre-match felicitation, recognizing the Afghan spinner’s remarkable journey in international cricket.

AfghanAtalan celebrate @rashidkhan_19 100th ODI by awarding him a special shield from @Trotty, a cap from @MohammadNabi007, and a playing shirt with the number 100 from bowling coach @HamidHassanHH. 👍

Wish you all the very best on this special day Rash! 🤩#CWC23 pic.twitter.com/C4nORPEdjt

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) October 30, 2023

Also READ: Australian journo Chloe-Amanda Bailey takes a subtle dig at England following their defeat against India