Former Pakistan pacer Shabbir Ahmed found himself on the receiving end of cricket fans after he made claims about Team India tampering the ball followin the conclusion of the fifth Test match against England. Unable to digest the Indian bowlers’ brilliance with the ball, the former pacer accused Siraj and Co. of tampering with the ball using Vaseline.
Taking to X Shabbir wrote, "I think India used Vaseline. After 80 + over Ball still shine like new Umpire should send this ball to lab for examine,"
However, the fans were quick to play down his claims, with one of them even pointing out the time Shahid Afridi bit the ball during an ODI series in 2010.
Who is Shabbir Ahmed?
Shabbir is a former right-arm pacer who played 10 Tests, 32 ODIs and one T20I for Pakistan between 1999 and 2007. He took a combined 84 wickets during his international career.
The tall pacer was suspended for one year on account of a suspect bowling action. He was the first bowler to be banned at the international level for 12 months after his bowling action was found illegal after Test. The ban was lifted in December 2006.
He also played for now-defunct Indian Cricket League, where he represented Chennai Superstars. He took a hat-trick in the final of the inaugural ICL to help Chennai become the champions.
Sachin Tendulkar Hails Mohammed Siraj performance in England series
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has praised Mohammed Siraj for his brilliant performance in the India vs England Test series, especially during the final match at The Oval. Speaking in a video on Reddit, Tendulkar said that Siraj doesn’t get the recognition he truly deserves.
Tendulkar said, “Unbelievable. Superb approach. I love his attitude. I love the spring in his legs. For a fast bowler to be constantly in your face like that, no batsman will like it.”.
Tendulkar added that Siraj always steps up when the team needs him most, “The way he picked all those wickets and performed, he doesn't get the credit he deserves.”
Siraj was the highest wicket-taker in the five-match series, claiming a total of 23 wickets. His contribution was key in helping India draw the series 2-2 after a hard-fought contest. Siraj picked a sensational 5-104 in the second innings of the final Test which India won by 6 runs .
Siraj’s passion, precision, and match-winning performance earned praise from teammates, pundits, and fans alike. His animated celebration was the perfect ending to a thrilling match and a reminder of his growing stature as one of India’s most dependable pacers in all formats.
