Picture Credit: ICC
Journalists asking awkward or controversial questions from players in press conference has become quite common nowadays. Understanding the new trend, the players also seem to be adopting ways to tackle such situations beautifully. Days before Virat Kohli brilliantly answered a journalist who was asking if Rohit could be replaced with Ishan Kishan from India's playing XI and now Mohammad Nabi has hogged the limelight for his candid gesture.
While attending the press conference after Afghanistan's 5-wicket loss to Pakistan, Nabi was asked a "political question" from one of the journalists at the online event. The Afghan skipper didn't comment on the issue and rather requested the journalist to ask him questions related to cricket.
It would be better if we talk about cricket: Mohammad Nabi
Keeping in mind the recent turnaround in Afghanistan where Taliban overthrew the established government, the journalist asked Nabi if the team is under any pressure that they have to be answerable about their performance to the new government. "Afghanistan have played very well and they have won two matches. Is there any kind of fear that when you return home, you will be questioned as the government and situation have changed?” the journalist asked.
“In this new era, Afghanistan share a healthy relation with Pakistan. Do you feel that the Afghan team will be strengthened because of this?” he added another question before Nabi could start speaking.
Seemingly unhappy with the question, Nabi replied, “Can we talk about cricket leaving aside the situation? It would be better if we talk about cricket. We are here for the World Cup after taking proper preparations. You may ask any questions related to cricket.”
Pakistan beat Afghanistan by 5 wickets
Afghanistan played neck and neck with Pakistan in Dubai on Friday night before Men in Green all-rounder Asif Ali killed the game with his heroics in the penultimate over. Needing 24 to win off 12, Pakistan were in a state of bother but a confident Asif hit Karim Janat for four sixes in the over to seal the game for his side. The win helped Pakistan maintain their unbeaten streak in the tournament and almost confirmed their semi-final spot.