Harbhajan Singh Blasts Kamran Akmal for Racist Slur Against Arshdeep Singh; Akmal Issues Apology

A racist comment by former Pakistan cricketer Kamran Akmal directed at Indian star Arshdeep Singh during the T20 World Cup 2024 match between India and Pakistan held in New York stirred controversy. The incident took place during a panel discussion on ARY News, where Akmal made a derogatory ‘Sikh’ joke, stating, “Kuch bhi ho sakta hai… 12 baj gaye hai (Anything can happen. It is already 12),” which quickly went viral on social media.

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh did not hold back his outrage, taking to social media to denounce Akmal’s comments. In a strongly worded post on X, Harbhajan wrote, “Lakh di laanat tere Kamran Akmal… You should know the history of Sikhs before you open your filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved your mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock. Shame on you…Have some gratitude.”

Lakh di laanat tere Kamraan Akhmal.. You should know the history of sikhs before u open ur filthy mouth. We Sikhs saved ur mothers and sisters when they were abducted by invaders, the time invariably was 12 o’clock . Shame on you guys.. Have some Gratitude @KamiAkmal23 😡😡🤬 https://t.co/5gim7hOb6f

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) June 10, 2024

The backlash prompted Akmal to issue a public apology. He expressed deep regret for his comments and extended his apologies to Harbhajan Singh and the Sikh community, stating, “I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to @harbhajan_singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry.”

I deeply regret my recent comments and sincerely apologize to @harbhajan_singh and the Sikh community. My words were inappropriate and disrespectful. I have the utmost respect for Sikhs all over the world and never intended to hurt anyone. I am truly sorry. #Respect #Apology

— Kamran Akmal (@KamiAkmal23) June 10, 2024