Glenn Maxwell sparks Pakistan outrage after handshake snub of Sarfraz Ahmed
Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed and some of his country’s fans were left irate after an apparent Glenn Maxwell post-match handshake snub.
For those who missed it. This is what happened. pic.twitter.com/nORNAMLTPR
— Taimoor Zaman (@taimoorze) July 8, 2018
Australian allrounder Maxwell walked past Sarfraz’s outstretched hand as the teams shook hands following Pakistan’s six-wicket win in the Twenty20 tri-series final in Harare on Sunday, reports stuff.co.nz.
Television footage of the incident appears to pick up Sarfraz muttering an obscenity as he walks away, after Maxwell clearly moves past to shake the hands of the umpires.
Pakistani cricket journalist Mazher Arshad wrote on Twitter: ‘It seems Australia’s promise to play respectful cricket was only a lip-service. Maxwell refusing to shake hands with Sarfraz was worse than sledging.’ Other fans took aim at Maxwell on social media for his ‘uncalled for’ actions and ‘poor sportsmanship’.
In the wake of the ball tampering scandal in South Africa in March, new test captain Tim Paine vowed his Australian side would embark on a new era of ‘respectful’ cricket.
After taking two Pakistan wickets in the first four balls of the innings, Maxwell was smashed for 33 off his last two overs with Sarfraz among the batsmen to go after him.
Maxwell later twitted:
— Glenn Maxwell (@Gmaxi_32) July 9, 2018
World No 1 Pakistan chased down Australia’s 184 with four balls remaining.