Sports Anchor Nauman Niaz has hit back at criticism after a heated argument with former Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar resulted in the latter’s on-air resignation.
“One side of the story always attracts,” Niaz said as quoted by Pakistan’s Geo TV.
I wonder why one has to be reminded @shoaib100mph is a star. He has been the best of the best, he shall always be. He has brought laurels to the country is undeniable. One side of the story always attracts nonetheless having been friends for ages I’ll always wish him the best.
— Dr. Nauman Niaz (@DrNaumanNiaz) October 26, 2021
The incident occurred during a PTV sports show “Game on Hai” leading to a dramatic scene at the studio after Pakistan’s victory against New Zealand. Nauman Niaz had engaged in a controversy involving Haris Rauf. During the show, Akhtar credited PSL’s Lahore Qalandars for discovering Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf. The sports presenter apparently took the offence and hit back at Akhtar.
Dr Nauman Niaz and Shoaib Akhtar had a harsh exchange of words during live PTV transmission. pic.twitter.com/nE0OhhtjIm
— Kamran Malik (@Kamran_KIMS) October 26, 2021
“You’re being a little rude and I don’t want to say this: but if you’re being over smart, you can go. I am saying this on-air,” Niaz told on air. Akhtar eventually decided to walk away after tendering an apology to other guests that featured Sana Mir, Vivian Richards, among others.
“A lot of apologies guys, a lot of apologies. I am resigning from PTV. The way I have been treated on national TV, I don’t think I should be sitting here right now. So, I am resigning. Thank you very much,” he said.
Multiple clips are circulating on social media so I thought I shud clarify. pic.twitter.com/ob8cnbvf90
— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) October 26, 2021
The incident sparked nationwide outrage with netizens demanding PTV to sack Nauman Niaz.
@shoaib100mph is our pride, no one can insult him on National TV. PM should take notice and will remove Dr. Nauman Niaz from PTV Sports. #iSupportShoaibAkther pic.twitter.com/H4XQl8dA5F
— Faakhir Rizvi (@FaakhirRizvi) October 26, 2021
