Deciding to bat first turned out to be the sensible thing to do. I think the Pakistanis bowled brilliantly, better, collectively, than our lot, but Dhoni had gambled that runs on the board, batting first, would be worth a few wickets in a World Cup final and he was dead right. Umar Gul was unplayable: to bowl yorker after yorker at nearly ninety miles an hour in the bedlam of a Twenty20 game, you have to be a very superior player. And Shoaib captained like a young genius: the decision to go with spin at both ends the moment Yuvraj walked in at the fall of the second wicket was inspired. He thought him out.

When the team was announced at the start of the match, half-a-dozen times through the match and then after it was over, I thought of the parents of the Brothers Pathan. To have two sons in India's eleven, to have your older boy hit the second ball of his international career for six, to see him bowl an over, then to watch your younger son return triumphantly to form when it mattered most, to see him made the Man of this Mother of all Matches, must have been more magical than a fairy tale. Rajdeep Sardesai tells of the time Irfan took him to the home he grew up in, just to show him the improbable origins of an Indian champion. Two rooms in the compound of the mosque where his father was the Imam. Talk about happy endings!

	Shoaib Malik's decision to have spinners at both ends as soon as Yuvraj Singh came in was a masterstroke © Getty Images

Then the Pakistan captain said something that was so irrelevant that I couldn't believe my ears. So I looked at the highlights over and over again to make sure that I'd actually heard him say it. This is what he said to master of ceremonies, Ravi Shastri, who asked him a sympathetic question about the game after Shoaib had collected his loser's medal:

"First of all I want to say something over here. I want to thank you back home Pakistan and where the Muslim lives all over the world."

This is what he said word for word because it's important to quote him correctly. The problem here isn't the syntax, it is the sentiment. I don't expect Shoaib Malik to be a politically correct intellectual, but it is reasonable to expect him to know the world of cricket that he inhabits.

It is a world where Muslims, Hindus and a Sikh currently play for England, where Buddhists, Muslims, Christians and a Hindu play for Sri Lanka, where Hashim Amla turns out for South Africa, where a Patel plays for New Zealand, where Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and Hindus play (and have always played) for India. Why would Shoaib think, then, that the Muslims of the world were collectively rooting for the Pakistan team or that they felt let down by its defeat? Did he stop to think of how Danish Kaneria, his Hindu team-mate, might feel hearing his Test skipper all but declare that the Pakistan team is a Muslim team that plays for the Muslims of the world? It is one thing to be publicly religious—Shahid Afridi thanked Allah and Matt Hayden and Shaun Pollock are proud, believing Christians—quite another to declare that your country's cricket eleven bats for international Islam.

Is this the forum to talk about this? Shouldn't Cricinfo and cricket's online community stick to cricket and leave issues like this alone? No we shouldn't, because Shoaib Malik chose to make it our business by saying it in team colours at the end of the ICC World Twenty20 final. He said something that goes to the heart of cricket's loyalties, its culture, its plurality of race and faith and language. If Shoaib took in nothing else about the final, he must have noticed that the bowler who took his wicket was called Irfan Khan Pathan, that the Indian team's most visible cheerleader, the guy who was hugging Indian players in turn at the end of the game, was one Shah Rukh Khan. I feel a residual distaste in even mentioning their names because both Shah Rukh and Irfan are admired in India for what they've achieved, not who they are. But sometimes it is important to spell things out and Shoaib could do with the instruction.

Shoaib Malik just downgraded his intelligence by uttering such a statement. I hope it was just an aberration and he would realise his mistake. Excuse me.. err.. wasnt it a muslim who won the MOM for the opposite team...

I agree with your comments 100%. Shoaib did spoil the mood by making a fool of non-muslim supporters of Pakistan.

Wonderful finishing statements. I am not a good writer but believe me that I thought the same. Cricket is a sport and please keep it out of religion and contribute to its success and not add colors to it.

Why are you talking about islam? He wanted to thank the people for their prayers if they were muslim. You got it all wrong.

I think Mr Kesavan you are over analysing his words too much. Your so called 'sectarian' team has won the match ...

I agree with you Mukul one hundred percent. The thing you said about the Shoaib Malik and his statements did really hurt me. I am not a muslim but I still rooted for Pakistan in their matches except their match against us. I always like the pakistani bowlers and their talents. I dont think what he said was appropriate on this world stage. He should be reprimanded and should apologise to everybody.

leave da poor captain alone, itz onli his first tym as captain he was nervez wen he went up 2talk n mus hav got mixed up!!!

Brilliantly put article. I think it's time the cricketing world, and Pakistani's in general, acknowledge that there is the concept of "Indian Muslim", and it's incredibly prevalent in society today - sports, cricket and other - just as you pointed out.

It was a reckless statement on his part and I hope he realises that there are more Muslims in India than in Pakistan, and probably more Muslims praying for India than for Pakistan..

What a guy this Mukul is!! I rate his blog and cricket acumen way ahead of a Nasser Hussain (my favorite commentator!!) or Ian Chappel's incisive commentry.

I rememebr wincing when Shoaib Malik uttered those words. He doesn't realise that he's plunging a great cricketing nation like Pakistan to abysmal depths by citing words like Muslim supporters, islam etc.

I understand that he's not fluent in his spoken English BUT pakistanis are ridiculing themselves by "saying" all that in a public event like this.

Mukul, I'm waiting in all earnest for your comments on another unwarranted and unwanted person Sreesanth

Great article.

Shame on Shoaib Malik

I totally agree Mukul .... you can't even put this on bad communication skills ....that was outright inappropriate ....especially after Irfan was the MOM.

Well, actually I dint see this bit but my friends told me about Shoaib's comments. I was first surprised. Then angry!

1. If I am an Indian Muslim, I would be angry cauze he is questioning my patriotism.

2. If I am an Indian Hindu I would be angry he got away with this! Imagine if an Indian Hindu had questioned the patriotism of Indian Muslim's.

Its high time Shoaib Malik should learn to be a cricketer first and then anything else. I think this article is a good starting point for him to understand that he is what he is today cause of the game and not a religion.

It (Shoaib thanking Muslims worldwide for their loss :)) almost undid the brilliance Pakistan showed on the field...I am glad that India as a nation has moved on, where a SRK or a pathan or a Zaheer Khan can be proud of their achievements and leaving their religious identities at home like millions of others in the country. Maybe, we as a society got something right, never mind the occasional eruption of jingoism and hate.

Shoiab Malik should be given the information that more muslims live in India than in Pakistan and they support India. Moreover a game is above religious plays.Its only religion is humanity

nice article ...very interesting comment by Shoeb and a very wrong one ... We always play as team not based on religon

Whatever Shoaib said to ravi's question was completely wrong and irrelevant. Lokk in to the future Shoaib don't act like inzi. Grow up.

As an Indian Muslim, I was aghast at reading Malik's statement on Cricinfo, soon after the high of reveling in India's victory. What I wanted to shout out loud in his ear was, "Sorry to burst your bubble bro, but I was a Muslim rooting for India and your loss gladdened me to no end!"

Fantastic article Kesavan...You are absolutely spot on with your observations. This team has belied expectations and led wonderfully well, while Pakistan unfortunately were on the losing side when one hit could have seen them through.Finally the Indian team have delivered when it has mattered over the last few weeks. I agree with you completely about Shoib's comments at the end of the game. Who is he to think that all Muslims root for Pakistan..It is good to have religion and faith but it shouldnt be overtly advertised on the world stage, that too in a final of a world cup!

Mr Mukul u are fishing an issue out of a mere slip of the poor mans tongue he intended and wanted to say pakistanis all over the world come on give the guy a break his english is no where near to urs and u should give him the benefit of doubt........oh but why would u u need fodder for ur columns and not ur fault ur bread and butter depends on it ....but still show some sports man spirit man...

Mukkul,

I am one of the many cricket lovers who are impressed with the way young captains like Dhoni and Mailk approach the press conferences with lot of sensible thoughts and outright honesty. So obviously I was shocked to hear these words from the Pakistani captain.

But I still want to give the benefit of doubt to this young captain. As we all know, English is not his mother tongue and a language where he can express himself very clearly. I think that he wanted to say "pakistanis settled around the world", but it came out wrongly as "muslims around the world". Let's hope I am right :)

Mukul, I'm glad you pointed out and focused on Malik's comments. Its one of the most idiotic things I've heard a captain say after a match. Shortly after I read his comments, I went and blogged on it (not quite as eloquently as you) but it was a little expression of what I felt: http://eye-on-cricket.blogspot.com/2007/09/you-sir-are-idiot.html
I hope someone in the Pakistani press takes him to task as well; otherwise, we'll see other Pakistani captains express similarly ludicrous sentiments down the line as well.

I agree with the writer 100% here. We were watchining the game rooting for India but when Umar Gul bowled yorker after yorker, we were praising him. We were praising how well Pakistan had bowled. Comments like Shoib made here brings religon in the game. As a sports man I appreciate players not who they are. I watached Pak vs. NZ game and I cheered for Pak in that match and I am a non-muslim. Shoib with his comments saying that he only cares about muslim supporters. TOTALLY WRONG, that is not how you win supoort.

Didn't Dhoni and Malik forgot to congratulate each other ? C'mon, both reached the finals after leading such young teams. Only Afridi had the decency to congratulate the victor.

And this comment from Malik -- total unwarranted.

Silly comment from the captain of a team who should have long realized that religion and sport don't mix...

I think Malik down rated the Pakistan's team effort and support in cricket lovers (In particular Non-Muslim's) after such a prime effort. On a different note India has more Muslim than Pakistan........

To be honest, I have enjoyed every article of this match but this one. I truly think that was a slip of tongue from Shoib, a captain hugely disappointed with the loss, and it can happen. This game was played in the best of spirits regardless of race, religion, etc. and we all know international sports like Cricket is beyond all this.

I truly request for all the readers/writers lets not spoil the fun by raising such issues that aren't really issues. Lets learn to give benefit of the doubt for once and celebrate one of the most thrilling matches that was played in years...

Shoaib's comments are an insult to all the pakistan supporters!!! Perhaps he wants to avoid the backlash encountered at home ...of loosing to India (yet again) at the world stage.

Malik's comments are an echoing sentiment of the Pakistan Cricket Team. Religion has no realm in the boundaries of sport. Regardless of your beliefs - sports should be and always will be universal. Kudos Mukul for you candid and honest insight into Malik’s irresponsible demeanor.

Mukul, I agree to your comments totally. The way Shoaib made his comments, I was shocked. Muslims in India will outnumber muslims in pakistan in population and I dont think they would support Pakistan. I agree to your point that giving bowling to Joginder Sharma was not a good ploy, but if you look in the context of the game, we did not have any other bowler left to fall on except Harbhajan, who was out of colour against Misbah ul haq. Hats off to Misbah the way he has batted through out the tournament. Only two people deserved to be be called man of the tournament. 1) Umar Gul, 2) Misbah. Shahid was not a right choice since he took wickets at very costly rate and his runs were came against Bangladesh. This is the irony of the game that one has to lose. Both team played superb game. But at the end, India held the nerves and Misbah was done by pressure not by bowling. Great leadership by Mahendra Singh Dhoni looking at the kind of resources he got. All were young and most of them were new to the international cricket. Look at the bowling options given to Dhoni, Agarkar was going for runs and he did not have a good back up bowler to look for. At the end, Team which held its nerve won the match. Shoaib and Dhoni both deserve big round of applause for the way they have led their teams. Congratulations to team India the way they have played through the tournament. It was total team effort, no heros.
Being an Indian, I am delighted that India won.

I completely agree with Mukul. I have always supported Pakistan and Srilanka because of their sub-continent origin rather than the religion they follow. I sincerely feel that captains of international cricket teams should be taught what not to speak sometimes!!!!. I know that Shoaib is young and still inexperienced being a captain, but hopefully, he will not involve religion with a fine game of cricket from now on.

Mukhul,
Very well said abt Shoaib Malik's comments. Being a representative of Global sport, he should choose his words carefully. Every Player should understand that sport is beyond Race, Religion, caste etc and every Ind citizen has the right to support Pakistan in a sport and vice versa as long the individual is motivated only by sporting interest and not political. Anyways, this tournament has been a moral boosting victory for all cricketing youngsters in general no matter they are from India, Pak or Aus etc. 20-20 needs energetic Young talent to succeed.Period.

I don't think he thanked the Muslims. I was watching the ceremony and he thanked all the Muslim Leagues all over the world. I think he (and the Pakistan team) must have gotten good luck messages from all over the world. And he was thanking them. He seems to be a level-headed guy.
Long time back I think Umar Gul talked in Urdu/Hindi during a presentation ceremony. Why don't all players who are not comfortable with English talk in their native tongue? I don't think knowing English is a sign of a cricket player.

Yes Mukul, I agree with you… that was totally inappropriate and unnecessary statement… I am an Indian Muslim and a die-hard Indian fan; his statement let me down… This is where I think Pakistan should have appointed some one like Shahid Afridi as captain, who understands the context and speaks appropriately to the occasion…

I hope we heard what we did was because of Shoaib's obvious discomfort with the english language. A huge majority believes in the sentiments captured by you Mukul and I sincerely hope it does not grow into another bickering point between cricket fans! And yes, I am a fan of Dhoni the skipper. As Gavaskar rightly noted in the post match analysis, our man has that presence on the field and players seem to look up to him. The most unfortunate bit, amidst all this euphoria, however, has been the way our media has reacted. Their has been veiled comments on the relevance of the TRIO in light of our successes in South Africa. This is such a pity indeed. To think that we had a respectable face in international cricket over the last decade and a half can be ascribed solely to these greats. Throghout the nineties, our batting was synonimous with sachin. Dravid has produced more masterclass innings than any in the world over the last 6-7 years. Now is not the time to pass veiled remarks against them. They have been massive.

Cheers!

I was stunned when I heard it... getting religion in the middle of the things.It's pathetic.I hope Shoaib didn't really mean it.

As a muslim myself I'm sure Shoaib meant the support of muslims the world over during this testing month of ramadan. However I'm sure the writer knows this...

I doubt he meant anything by it.

Probably just a slip of the tongue. I think people are making more of it than they should.

After reading this article, I'm at cross roads whether to applaud or applaed such keen observation.
I'm sure, Mr. Malik had no intention of making this a Muslim forum. He probably could have put it alot better had he said in his native tongue.
Somethings ARE LOST in transaltion. Let it be Mr. Kesavan, let it be. He is no Poilitician nor an orator, he's just a good cricketer and simple man. Do not make this into a Muslim hating forum.

Hi Mukul

I want to start off by saying that you might be a little too hasty in calling Dhoni the only adult in Indian cricket, we must remember that Dravid was not the captain that blamed others and stamped his feet. However, having said that, I completely agree with you when you say that Dhoni does not look like he is burdened by the task of making large and crucial decisions... For some reason, Dravid always seemed like a man in trouble all throughout the game... Dhoni has a likable carefree flair about him, which will do a lot for Indian cricket over the next couple of years. I agree with you when you say Dhoni should be made the Test captain as well, not because I believe he's the only one capable of doing it... but because I don't believe in the concept of different captains in the different forms of the game... lets give one guy the reins and see what he does.

Also, I'm really glad that you brought up Shoaib Malik's comments... I thought the same thing as you when I saw the postgame ceremony... I actually went back and watced it again just to make sure I had heard him right. I was incredibly surprised by his declaration of playing for muslims... especially taking into context his competition. His side was not playing australia or south africa or west indies where although islam exists, it is not a crucial aspect of everyday life... but instead, they were playing India, a country with a large islamic population and a country who's last President was a man by the name of Abdul Kalam... not to mention the names you brought up. We have had this notion in India and Pakistan about the conflict being between Hindus and Muslims... fortunately, this idea has beginned to die down recently and friendlier times have come... the last thing we need is the captain of the pakistan team stating pakistan plays for all the muslims in the world. I'm glad you brought up this topic... because I know a lot of people would be hesitant to seem controversial when infact, it was Shoaib Malik who set it up that way.

big pakistan fan, dejected that they lost. Shoaib Malik should not have said what he said. In pakistan there are all types of people who love cricket and pakistan. Whether you are Christian, Sikh, or hindu pakistan is for everyone and that is what jinnah believed in. Shoaib has used the wrong choice of words. I am Muslim and I dont agree with his statement.

I agree with the writer's sentiments. It was totally inappropriate for a National team captain to say such a thing. However, Let us take into consideration that this bright young man is just a product of his environment. Hopefully, with more exposure and more experience of being in a high position of authority will ensure that he will not repeat such a faux pas as this. Perhaps, this piece should be directed more at the PCB than at Malik himself.

Geoff Lawson must try and root such sentiments from his captain or it might undermine what little progress the team has managed thus far. For me, the great fun of this final was a tiny bit diminished by such a crass and insulting comment. You encapsulated the vast majority of general feeling most succintly in your article. Cricket is a universal game to be loved, cherished and much enjoyed by all regardless of colour, creed or class. Long live cricket.

Very poignantly put. It is the ill-informed individuals like the Pakistani captain who could have done something like this. Did the Indian victory make Irfan Pathan and his brother Yousuf, a lesser Muslim? I think NOT. They are just individuals like their captain Dhoni representing their country. It is insulting to even reflect on such comments. This habit of bringing religion is insidious and must not be allowed to tarnish a global event where skills and not beliefs matter. Wonder what Geoff Lawson felt? Welcome to the club, mate. I wonder what would happen if the Australians start praising Jesus Christ at Lahore after beating the Pakistan team in a series there. PLEASE LEAVE RELIGION OUTSIDE THE CRICKET GROUNDS. It has NO place there. And if you want to praise the lord or your religion, do it in your heart.

wounderful captaincy by Dhoni, well support from the other team mates, it's really grate.

Wow! Is this immaturity or what? My heart goes out to Danish Kaneria - the whole idea of being publicly religious (thanking Allah, etc) is not good; considering that it brings in the 'religion'(fundamentalist) element to cricket. Obviously, its a personal choice - but here, it does seem to be forced upon the whole Pakistani team. In a lot of ways, it represents the thought process of how the team goes preparing for its matches.

Yes Shoaib did do a faux pas with his statement. He could very well have gone the Dhoni route by saying that the whole country was praying for them.

Give the guy a break. His team has just lost to there arch rivals. Shoaib was very emotional and made an error. He meant to say Paksitanis all over the world not Muslims. Everyone makes mistake. Why is Mr Mukul making a big thing about this ? And Mr Ashwini there are more muslims in Pakistan than in India. Please get your facts right.

Good article. I think you summarized it brilliantly. Perhaps Shoaib should have his comments written out for him by a speech writer going forward.
....Even Inzy would not have said something like this......or maybe he would :)
There is no place in cricket for anyone who thinks Shoaibs comment was justified.

I 100% agree with the comments posted by Mukul. I looked at the video and the first impression I got "what he is talking on the stage where the entire cricket world is looking at". This shows how immature he is. I am sure, someone should point out and ask him to apologize for his immature comments.

I also wanted to add something in Shoaib's defense... I really hope that what he said was just due to his discomfort with the english language, in which case... that is entirely excusable...

I really hope it was a phrase that was lost in translation... not anything intentional

Malik got what he deserved.Also his sentiments reflect what he believes. But let me mention that India got much more than a world championship........It got a clear and open advertisement of its secular nature to the whole world.It was emotional to see a cheer go up when Shahrukh was shown on the screen, see him hugging the players and congratulating them.Nothing is a better advertisement for India than those scenes. Keep it up India.

Mukul, I am sure you realize that Shoaib is the tip of this huge ugly iceberg, which we all can do without in cricket. It is all the more shocking coming from him, since he is married to Ayesha Siddiqui from Hyderabad in India and is expected to know the emotions of his 'sasural' country. Somebody needs to walk upto this man and use bold letters to burst his ears with the followinh message: SORRY SIR, YOU MAY HAVE BURDENED YOURSELF TO REPRESENT EVERY MUSLIM ON EARTH (what the heck, even on MARS), BUT MUSLIMS IN INDIA ARE REPRESENTED BY THOSE 11 MEN IN BLUE.

Malik's comments should make every Indian feel proud about what India and Indian spirit stands for. I'm a Hindu and I'm proud to have an Irfan in my team and not a Malik.

I think the man should at least be given a chance to explain himself before we all jump on him.

Let's remember people that the comment came after probably his biggest cricketing setback. I doubt he was thinking clearly (or at all)

Although I still think people are making a mountain of a mole hill.

It's unfortunate that MK chose to close his post with the Malik controversy. In doing that, he diluted the rest of the article in my mind. Is Shoaib a better spokesman/ambassador/politician than he is a cricketer. I think not, however we expect him to be. Did he mean it to be a personal affront to all the non-Muslim supporters of Pakistan? MK surely thinks so. Perhaps he should have his speechwriters fired, Mr Kesavan?

As an Indian Muslim, I felt pretty bad about what he said. But he's still a young lad who is not very experienced as a captain. I am proud of what the Indian team has achieved and will always stand by them through thick and thin.

This is really not the right time to write this kind of comment. After this wonderful World Cup, it would have been better to talk about the play itself than some random sentence that Shoaib Malik uttered at the end of the match.
This is the problem with ALL you Journalists. You guys take some random words and make it into big issues. Cut it out, and admire the game

Let's cut him a break, people sometimes say things they don't realize when they are saying them. Having said that, he is the captain of pakistan internation team, should be more careful of his words in future.

I too felt a little odd listening to Malik; he should be given the benefit of doubt though. English is not the subcontinent's first language anyway.
Joginder Sharma is undercooked. His figures today do not do justice to his mediocre bowling. He was lucky today; was bowling over pitched dollies outside off.
Had Robin Uthappa held on to a tough chance from Misbah earlier, it would not have been this close.
Dhoni seems to be saying the right things so far. But he's been lucky too - all his decisions have paid off in spectacular fashion, this is not to take anything away from him.
Feels great to savor a victory in a World Cup after 24 years.

Three Cheers.
One last note - BCCI please dont kill the hen that lays the Golden Egg. Can't beleive these guys will be back on the field in B'lore on Sat. This after a 3 month gruelling tour of England and then this. All the players and their work loads have to be managed very carefully; a policy of rotation has to be adopted.

Thank you for pointing out the Pakistan skipper's mistake and making a formal note of it. Playing at an international level and speaking at the finals of a world cup, you have to realize the impact of your words and the number of people listening to you. What he said is absolutely ridiculous and I hope more people pick this point and question him about it till he says something to retract his statement. With the man of the match standing next to him, he proved that he was clearly blind to cricketing loyalities.

I am pretty sure Shoaib did not mean what he said. It is just that he is uneducated and was probably caught up in the moment.

This was exactly my reaction when I heard him utter those words on live tv BUT after a while when it sunk in herez what I thought.

I think you missed out on a few more words that he said. He said, "we are sorry for the loss but you should know that we gave our 100%". Its easy to give a knee-jerk reaction to somebody's words but we should also understand where his words came from. Pakistan is a islamic nation and there are scores of proud pakistani nationals living outside their home country. They were disappointed and devastated after having coming so close. They share the same passion for this game as theirs brothers across the border. For Shoaib they are all muslims and so are they for the rest of us and that is who I think he referred to as the muslim people.

Given his apparent shortcomings in the English language why can't we stop judging and give him the benefit of doubt?

Those comments from Malik have tainted an otherwise good Debut as Captain. his batting and leadership throughout the tournament have been calm and composed. Though some of his descions have been pretty bad ( Afridi at 6 is a pure waste his slogs are more likely to clear the field in the first 6 overs, moving Kamran up the order was bad too) but on the whole he is a much better captain than Younis is.
About those comments less said the better...

Well when Pathan won the MOM he did not thank Muslims does it make him a lesser Muslim or a better sports personality ?

Chak De India!!!!

Mukul Kesavan is absolutely right in his criticism of Shoaib Malik. It was distasteful and I felt it spoiled the atmosphere more than anything. A player gets punished for excessive appealing, showing dissent etc. It is a shame that people are allowed to play and get away with making such remarks.

Shoaib should learn to be good cricketer first.I think shoaib is thinking, the whole Muslim community in the world supporting PAK. I supported Pak through out the tournament,except when they played against india. I was shocked when i saw it live. Good article Mukul.

Was waiting for such article...nicely written. Of all the things that happened over the tournament ... of all the wins and losses of Pakistan, of all their great and good performances what matters most to its captain is that he dissappointed the world of Islam!!
How can he even suppose that a Indian (or for that matter a non-Pakistani) muslim will be wnting for him to win? We Indians are a proud nation, we take great pride in being Indians. God help Malik if he thinks any Indian (muslim or non-muslim) will support Pakistan in a India-Pakistan match. WE ARE PROUD TO BE INDIANS!!

I am from pakistan and boy what a game. To make things worse shoaib opens his mouth. Keep your mouth shut and just play the game. Enough...Move on people. Stop showing off the religion and focus on the game. DISGRACEFUL.

Absolutely right. All of us who were watched were stunned by that statement. We were all watching excellent cricket by both the teams, and out of no where Mr. Shoaib decided to include some thing that was totally unnecessary. If it is a mistake, I hope he meant all Pakistanis and not Muslims! But otherwise he better take english lessons/public speaking courses. I am sure every cricket lover in the world was appreciating batting by Misbah-Ul-Huq, may not be enjoying :).
I hope some one in the press let Shoaib know about his mistake and hope he does not repeat it.

This Pakistan Captains comment comes as no surprise as there has been precedence with most captains barring Rameez Raja & Wasim Akram uttering such comments. Not too long ago the country's cricket establishment found to it's dismay prayer was the way to success & not practice. Less mentioned the better else it gives credence to the utterence itself.

you guys dont have other things to do than discussing over poor mans poor comments ? :)

I think he most certainly wanted to THANK all the people for SUPPORTING and PRAYING for him and his team.

His english is not all that great(even though better than Inzi), so you have to give him some slack.

I am very much thinking in the way of Mukul and hoping that some one (as i am not a software/computer expert) will come-up with this article. I am feeling shame now for wishing for Pakistans success in all other matches, except those involving India. Infact, i wished they should loose by a tiniest of the margins so that back home their people will not hurt that badly...

oh! I agree with you mukul! he should hav avoid that words...but i think, he used that word only for escaping from the after effects of this loss from the pakistani's supporters in pakistan!.." Shoib, cricket is a global game...and all players are good ambassador's of their country! ....so try to avoid those types of words in future...you hav a gr8 future as captaining pakistan...and sorry danish kaneria,it was not to hurt you! :)

well the guy has really undone and brought shame to his team's briiliant performance that got them so far and almost to the top! I am also sure our brothers whom he was referring to feel the same!

its not abt muslim, hindu, sikh, christian etc....it's about cricket, man!! grow up Shoaib (and quickly)

one thing's certain: Shoaib needs to learn diplomacy if he has any hopes of being a respected captain....

btw, brilliant article Mukul

I think Shoaib just wanted to thank the pakistani supporters all over the world and not the muslims.. I am sure he repents the import of what he said at the conference.. lets nt make an issue out of this..

I think Dhoni could have persisted with Yusuf pathan, who did bowl well in the one over. The three sixes of harbhajan in one over almost tilted the match in pakistan's favor.

...He thanked people in Pakistan and Muslims around the world. What did he thank them for? For praying for/supporting the Pakistan team. How does that question the loyalty of Indian muslims? If you're a Muslim and didn't support Pakistan, he didn't thank you. If you're not a Muslim and you prayed/supported Pakistan, he didn't thank you. Perhaps he forgot you, perhaps he didn't want to thank you or perhaps he doesn't know you exist. He isn't under any oblgation to thank anyone, so you can't hate him for that.

In the future, stick to cricket.

I imagine there is a lot of pressure at a post-match press conference. If you have to speak in a language that is not your mother tongue, the pressure can be doubled.

Malik impressed me with his cool captaincy and good criket skills. Pakistan have a bright future in such a young man. I would give Malik the benefit of the doubt...and possibly a ticket to an English Speaking and Public Relations Communcations course. Give him a break, guys!

I hope Chandu is right and it was just an error of translation. If not, it was a majorly stupid thing to say. I wish Irfan had said: "Thanks also to Shoaib for thanking me and Yusuf for some strange reason".

As for Dhoni, he does seem to be a fantastic captain. Though I don't think our previous guys had a habit of blaming others.

I beleived Shoaib Malik was a mercurial captain....more, a wonderful person, until the Twenty20 Final ceremony that is. He led his team well, created an amazing sense of belief among his players, showed them the path to a nearly won final. And then..... he uttered the unbeleivable. I firmly beleive he did not mean what he said, for there is no reason for him to say so. Yet he said and said so out of the context. The question is Why? And a bigger question is 'doesn't it have to do something with the kind of education these people are subjected to? Don't these words reflect what their concious have been fed? Do these guys ever realize how much it hurts the sentimemnts of cricket lovers, if not their own reputation?'
Shoaib, you have lost one fan and I am not sorry for that.

Yes, the comment from Shoaib Malik was irrelevant and wasnt fitting in any sporting event final podium or for that matter any event. I literally fail to understand what has religion got to do in supporting a team. Shoaib should publicly apologize over the issue.

His ENGLISH sucks! GIVE HIM A BREAK!

I'm sure he didn't mean it; just a slip of tongue!

mukul you are a abit of a jerk for makin this such a big issue because im sure u understand that shoaib malik most likely did not mean what he actually said, so give him a break im sure he and the rest of the pakistanis would appreciate this

OMG. You're taking this out of context. If you havent noticed, it's the month of Ramadan right now. Muslims, such as Shoaib feels that, not that I think he's fasting while playing, but for every muslim,this is a special time of the year. And many supporters have taken the time to follow Pakistan's matches during this period. He wanted to thank people for the prayers. Although I agree the statement was poorly timed, it was not that ridiculous. Pakistan is a country with 95 % muslims, take that in count. And also I feel Shoaib's true comment got lost in translation...simple as that.

SHAME on Shoaib! He insulted Bob Woolmer, Danish Kaneria and Geoff Lawson and Every Muslim playing for any other country than Pakistan.

Considering the fact that most of the Paki players are not familiar with English, it would be wise to give the benefit of doubt to the Pakistan skipper as to what he intended by his statement. Remember, not so long ago, a player and Skipper by the name Inzamam Ul Haq would shudder when he played well to warrant a man of the match award, just for the fear of speaking in English during the post match ceremonies.
So please leave this issue alone and savour the great win that our lads have pulled off....Chak De India.

Well! please dont make it an issue. The problem is that Pakistan players(except Shoaib Akhtar) finds it hard to express themselves in English. Sometimes they dont mean what they say when it comes to speak in english.

Give the poor guy a break. This is very harsh criticism, without even giving him any benefit of doubt..being on the winning side and just a spectator, i was not even in a position to speak after the game, just imagine how he might be feeling, drained of all emotions.. he must have meant "thank you back home Pakistan and the Pakistanis living all over the world". and the fact that he mentioned "back home", i am pretty sure he meant pakistanis and not muslims.
Anyways, he is a good captain and i am pretty sure we will have a cracker of an india-pakistan series coming up..

Hmmmm,,, its a day to be remembered and lets hope that team india keep this vibe going on....its moment for all of us to cheer...

Regarding the comment from Malik, lets excuse him on the basis of misinterpretation,, anyway we shouldnt pick on him much as atleast even if he had meant it word by word, how can we criticize ?, where our own government appends the list of allowed gods :-).... its a sad fact,,,, but we have to live with it.

As much i want to give benefit of the doubt, it left a bad taste. He is a young and brilliant captain for Pakistan. I hope he stays as captain for long time. As far as India Goes. CHAK DE INDIA!!!!!

Though, it could be a slip of the toung coupled with some emotions, when you talk to the media, you have got to be careful, in what you say; Sorry, no excuses here. I feel, a public apology from S Malik will correct this situation immediately.

Being a Pakistani, I was obviously saddened at the loss of Pakistan..but lets face it, IT WAS A FANTASTIC GAME! In regards to Malik's comments, he was thanking muslims who had sent him messages from all over the world not thanking all the muslims in the world...please correct your statement. Thanks.

As someone mentioned before, we root for Pakistan when they dont play against us. Wasim Akram, Imran Khan, Waqar and Inzamam-Ul-Haq are some players who would warm any cricket lovers hearts irrespective of their nationality or religion.

I just hope Malik's statement was an aberration or something that shouldn't have come out the way it should because if it didnt then that just means that he thinks that Pakistani cricket team is the torchbearer for Muslims around the world. I can just shake my head in disbelief. There are enough Muslims players playing for at least 4 other teams to shoot down that claim. I just hope that there is an explanation behind it. That aside, congratualtions to both the teams on playing a great tournament and two great matches. Can't remember when cricket was as exciting as this.

Lets not be nitpicky about what Malik said. It was a good match between good teams and in the midst of all the post-match adrenaline rush, a non-english speaking captain said something that did not come out right. Lets leave it at that. This is too good a moment to bicker about things like these.

I totally agree with you sir, i was apalled myself at the comment from the Pak Captain. The heart of a champion is neither muslim nor hindu nor a christian. For crickets sake i hope it was just the slip of a tongue and not the sentiment of a nation.

I am sure that the muslims of Bangladesh did not route for Pakistan especially after their defeat. I am sure Irfan Pathan and Yusuf Pathan did not route for Pakistan either. Sorry, Shoaib, I guess you are confused!!

Listen guys, that malik guys, didn't mean it, its just a language barrier... But he is a good player. I think its just habit forming to say things like that, just like we Americans use the 4 letter word on ever thing, I think he was just lost for words, I really think they should speak in urdu ...or have some one translate it for them.

Come on people. The last I heard (or read) was that Shoaib was taking English speaking lessons so as to enhance his reputation as a captain of a cricketing nation. Come to think of it. How old is this guy? At such an young age, you expect him to talk like an oxford pro? Gimme a break. Few days back India was about to burst over an octogenerian's statement (and a CM at that too) saying that whatever we read/heard about one of our God's is completely wrong. Given the context which is more inciteful? Come on guys. Lay off Shoaib. He said what he said, and did any one bother to ask him to clarify his statements, post match?

Relax. In the heat of the moment and knowing that over a billion people are watching you, any one can blubber due to nerves. Shoaib, as a Captain is an infant yet. The best of us who do publich speaking for ages, still get butterflies and say something wrong from time to time, that we absolutely don't mean it. So, what to talk about Shoaib then. The fact remains that the pakistani national cricketers are as close freinds to most of the Indian cricketers off the ground. So, let's give the kid a break....shall we? If we want to pick on something, there is always that old guy in the dark sunglasses who just landed a massive blow to the whole nation's sentiment in one drunken statement.

Lets see if you are "over-analyzing" Shoaib Malik's comments then you should know that he is still learning the language. Evidence: an english teacher awaits him when he gets back home. So there is a language barrier so to speak. Maybe things did not come out right. Maybe what he meant to say was, I am thankful for the people who are praying for our victory since its Ramadhan(a muslim holy month). So please don't be judgmental! Congrats to india on the victory and bring on the next series!

Awesome work Mukul...though all of them made an attempt to listen to it time and again..nobody dared to mention it as you did..Yes,he should not have said that.

Amazing win for India. A great finals. I think we have found a very talented, carefree Indian captain. We need someone like him who can bring the team together and let them all play their natural game. I always like the attitude of a team that can go for the kill. And India did it today. Regarding the comments of Paki captain... that is absolutely foolish for him to say anything like that. I hope he realises that. Very poor statement. He not only belittled his own team, he also belittled the whole country of Pakistan for such words.
Anyway, amazing victory for India. They deserved this. And yea, our victory streak in world cup against Pak continues!

Awesome work Mukul...though all of them made an attempt to listen to it time and again..nobody dared to mention it as you did..Yes,he should not have said that.

I disagree with you Kamer, Do you think Only MUSLIMS watch cricket & only MUSLIMS support Pakisthan? Cricket fans across the globe have watched/enjoyed/cheered this match.If he had said, Thanking Pakisthan people & the ppl who supported his team worldwide, that should have been the rights words.

I agree with mukul totallay, what shohaib said was totallay wrong, but give the guy some break he has lost a worldcup final, his face showed the story the guy didnt know what he was saying, and his english is not that good, he did not meat to disrespect anyone. Hes a human he made a mistake.

this is his 1st tournament as a captain..and this is India pak match..he must be under extreme stress after losing the match ...may be he wasnt aware of what he is talking in that state...v just cant blame him for this..v shd not take this srsly...it is due to his english prob and actually i think he dint mean to say this

Calling out 'Pakistanis around the world' is one thing and 'Muslims around the world' is another. For some of you who were arguing for 'poor guy - Malik' who should get the benefit of doubt - You dont need to have English as your mother tongue to differentiate between People of Pakistan around the world and Muslims around the world! You dont deserve to be the Captain and represent your nation when you are so ignorant and cant differentiate between such sensitive and politically so incorrect phrases. It's 'your' (as you would call him - Irfan) Muslim in India that won us the match today!

You can bring with you an interprater to translate Urdu into English. At the beauty peagents every year, girls representing Venenzuala bring interpraters with them to do all the talking! It's ok not to know a language that's not your native. But it's not okay to think what you were thinking while you were talking in front of the entire world!!!

frankly, i think that YOU should just stick to cricket as well. you really are making a mountain out of a molehill. get a grip people!

Guys! give him a break, he is just a nice guy and does not know english, maybe he meant to say People who supported Pakistan at Home and Away(instead of Muslim).

WoW! A great read...it's added to the pleasure of the day. Getting to the most significant point talked about, which I was expecting to be discussed widely as soon as I heard it, Shoaib Malik hasn't lived upto the spirit of the game. At the time, when we've begun looking at Cricket as a unique binding force for many countries and religions, his statement did the damage work. Kudos to Mr. Mukul for having explained the rationale behind why this irrational comment was unexpected from a team skipper. Let's hope the damage control is done by someone(wish it's Shoaib himself) to maintain the love and respect for the game in the minds of the fans, without any prejudices. And yes, hardly there would be any much happier people than the parents of Pathan brothers. They must be feeling on top of the world. Rohit, Yusuf and Joginder are proving their mettle, which is a great sign. RP and Irfan have done excellent job and get their due credits. But one man has gone a little unnoticed- Gambhir, without whose knock things wouldn't have turned this way. Thanks to Pakistan team too who displayed a great show and special ones to Misbah for that cute shot! It's crackers, music and Sweets all around...cheers to India...much more promises to keep...CHAK DE INDIA!

Irrespective of whether he meant it or not, whether it is his English to be blamed, whether he got caught up in emotion, or , being the captain and representative of your country on a world stage, you ought to be more careful about what slips out of your windpipe. This Pakistan team's obsession with religion has been well documented, and by overtly flaunting its faith, this team might portray a wrong image of what the real Pakistan is like in this new age. I am an Indian and have many Pakistani friends, and they were all equally aghast by what they heard. Shoaib Malik the person is free to say what he believes in his autobiography, or whichever medium calls for his personal views. But while representing a nation as a whole, better PR is called for. Some things are just not acceptable ...

Mr. Kesavan, Malik was thanking Muslims for their prayers for the team glory. Think and then talk.

Maybe someone should ask Shoaib to explain further before he is charged guilty or proclaimed innocent. Clearly, attention needs to be directed at understanding Shoaib's intent in making those comments before we all go off the deep end. Mukul, I'm sure you know folks who can get greater clarity on this directly from Shoaib. Cheers!

so Mr. Kamer, why to bother and insist on that ? no one should support such kind of statement. And reminding about ramdan, are you trying to tell than every thing is fair in that period... you are wrong. You are prroving yourself poor buddy

I think Malik meant all his supporters. He is not confortable talking in English..

Yes, i was shocked when looked at the Pakistani Captains speech at the Prize distribition. It doesn't make any sense to mention the RELIGION in such an occassion.

Doesn't he (Shoaib Malik) know that Indian team has Muslims in it? I believe, it's because of his lack of experience and he could also be not well prepared for a speech at the presentation. He should re-think about what he said...

Folks,
While Shoib might have not meant what he said....Still it is not the right stage or the right time to bring in religion during a post match conference. One must understand that people love to watch cricket matches not because of religion..It is simply not in the equation. Shoib's predecessor Inzamam also used to talk about such stuff in post match conferences...The pakistan Team must be asked to keep its religious sentiments out of such situations and only in the dressing room....It really left a bitter taste after what was an incredible final after so many years.

Thanks
Rajiv

What he wanted to Prove by saying so. I could not understand how his statements are related to his team's loss. It was a ridiculous statement

dude ..it is pretty obvious what he meant by that, because Pakistan is the only test playing cricket nation that has a Muslim majority, so that is why he said what he said, because muslims all over the world unless if they are from other test playing countries that has a minority of Muslims, they will support pakistan, i know i do, dude honestly you gotta read some books and stop picking on what a guy who speaks b r oc ke n english and start finding a real cricket story to write about or you will probably/hopefully will lose your job

Hi Mukul,
It must be an honest slip of the tongue in the heat of the moment. He was one shotaway from the worldcup and given his poor english background, you expect too much from him.
Give him a break and he will clarify matters.

Watchout guys!! Dhoni's relaxed/endearing presence can soon be described nonchalant or even careless behaviour. There is a fine line between the two and it moves one side or the other depending on whether you are winning or losing. Remember Sehwag's carefree hitting brought him to the door of captaincy until his "careless" attitude(more than his batting - as reported) shut him out of the team.

YES MUKUL U R 100% CORRECT HE SHOULD NOT SAY IT BECAUSE I IS AN INSULT TO NON MUSLIM FANS SUPPORTING PAKISTAN ADN AFTER ALL WE R ONE OF THOSE .

He married an indian muslim from hyderabad. he is our son-in-law

people at high should undergo some training sessions on what to talk in public. I do not think Malik had such kind of training. And just to bring out to every one that these people are not great public speakers, and we should not point,dwell,dig and make it a big political issue.
Malik is a great leader, to have lead the team to final should not be masked by what he said during presentation.
Let us forgive/forget what he said and enjoi what pakistan and India have given us today, "THE MEMORABLE MATCH".

I think it was a slip of the toungue and we shut give him the benefit of the doubt. In you article you say "This is what he said to master of ceremonies, Ravi Shastri, who asked him a sympathetic question about the game after Shoaib had collected his loser's medal."
'Collected his LOSER's medal'??? i mean comon show some sports man spirit. Should we similarly castigate over your thoughtless remark. And you even have the benefit of familiarity with English which the Pakistan captain didnt have.

To all those saying this was a slip of tongue, why don't you ask Shoaib to apologize and make a correction ?

I absolutely agree with mukul's obbservation. The fact that Malik is not good in english is not a good excuse of what he uttered. This utterances has been common in many of the pakistan skippers post match conference talks. Sports is suppose to bring countries, religions,people togoether but comments like this by malik could undo everything that was done in the past. Representing the country, malik should have been carefull in his words.. Finnaly CONGRATS to India.

Some thoughts about my todays heros
Ghambir -- dude where have u been all this time
Irfan -- U the man of the day
RP -- 12 wickets in the tournament do i need to say more
S Santh -- Love the exhibition of fire
Jogi - two matches two final over and u came through Kudos

First of congrtualtions to India. They held their nerves and won the game even when they felt they did not have the total on the board that they wanted. It is always is hard to chase when you have runs on the board and to top it off an India vs Pakistan final....u need nerves of steel.

I am die hard Pakistani fan, born, bleed, live sleep, think about Pakistan cricket, I too sub-continent teams.

Now on Maliks comments, I know the guy personally, I truly believe and know it in my heart that he did not mean "Muslims all over the world". Like most Pakistani's english is not their mother tongue, though I must he does speak better than "Inzy". I just feel because in the month of Ramadan he got carried away not just thanking Pakistani back home but Muslims over the world.

I did see footage of the Pakistani team shaking hands and Afridi hunging "Pajee - Harbajan". Dhoni and Malik did shake hands as well.

This rivalry has matured over the year and so has the fan base. Based here in CA, I play with my Indian friends and now we can talk about much openly, rather than the days of Sharjah when it was always a one-side affair in favour Pakistan.

Dhoni is a great choice for India and Malik a great choice for Pakistan. They should be given the freedom to build on youth and mold a team which reckon sub-continent again as force in the cricket world.

Notice the oldies from both teams were not missed. Inzy, Yousuf, Arogant-Akhtar or Razzak. I don't think Ganguly, Sachin or Dravid could have done any better as well.

At the end of the day lets cut Malik some slack and let the Indian fans and players rejoice this victory for years to come.

I look forward to Pakistan vs India series next year.

absolutely rediculous,as a muslim i would like appologise to everyone on shoibs behalf,people like him dont represent islam,infact people like pathan brothers represent true spirit of islam.but the mere fact we are talking about this stupid comment shows that we should all grow up.n finally,ALHUMDULILLAH india won.infact if u really are a true muslim,shouldnt u be fasting in this holy month of ramadan.but oh well,who cares my team won.

I was really surprised at Shoaib's comments as being the ambassador of pakistan cricket this is not expected, but it is a great moment of celebration for INDIA which has come after 24 years, as far as as Pakistan and shoaib is concerned such things can happen in times of dissappointment.So lets live the moment!!!

are you guys for real??? he's obviously a nice guy and even more obvious his English isn't all that good. such an amazing match and THIS is what you want to talk about????

I agree with you, sir. I was apalled by his comments!!! India has more muslims than there are in Pakistan...muslims who love their country in every way like any other Sikh, Christian or Hindu citizen of India....becoz in here they get the rights, respect, and opportunities, to make it Big no matter who you are..we have some of the best people of any religion at the higgest positions of society ...e.g. Abdul Kalam, The khan actors, Azim premji, Sania mirza, Zaheer khan/The Pathan brothers, Manmohan Singh and plenty more examples.
Please keep religion out of sport!!

OK LISTEN PPL>>> MOST OF THE COMMENTS HERE ARE BY INDIANS>>> NOT TO DEFEND MALIK HERE BUT LEARN HOW TO READ!!! SO PPL WHO ARE NOT FROM INDIA OR PAKISTAN OR IF ENGLISH IS THEIR SEDOND LANGUAGE!!! READ THE COMMENT AGAIN! I WILL PASTE IT AGAIN!!!!
MALIK : "First of all I want to say something over here. I want to thank you back home Pakistan and where the Muslim lives all over the world" .. .
HE SAID THE WHOLE NATION PAKISTAN AND (PLEASE NOTICE THIS MR. WRITER) AND THE MUSLIMS. I REST MY CASE!

Firstly, being the captain of a team is a responsibility in itself, and it behoves one to understand the responsibilities of being the face of your team. Mistakes do occur nevertheless, but the repurcussions of badly chosen words due the inability to express oneself in the English language cannot be pardoned, when you realize that millions upon millions are watching you. Every wrong word is amplified. Make your mistakes, but not at a world cup final and that too with India. I can understand the sentiment of some of the readers that we should brush this under the carpet and move on, but who is going to explain to the millions upon millions who took objection to the statement.

Cricket should be the focus, but being an ambassador of the game carries responsibilities far beyond cricket especially in India and Pakistan, where our population's self-esteem seems to stem from how we do in this sport!!!

I can forgive him, but what about the devout supporter in a corner of India. Its easy to say, its a game, but are you willing to take responsibility for the reactions of other people??

I would like to add--apologies if someone has already pointed this out--that Irfan began his response to Shastri when he was given the award with a 'Mahshah Allah' which--I could very well be imagining this--was, I thought, a brilliant retort to the Pakistan captain's statement. And, hey, whatever happenned to being a good sport--what about applauding the Indian team's effort? Maybe we should put that down to his youth. Along similar lines, hats-off to Afridi who rightly, being the more senior player, did commend the Indians.

Finally, thank god the oldies were all off the team!

Mohit

I was simply astounded when Malik uttered those words. I didn't see those comments reproduced anywhere. I was glad - atrocious comments swept under the rug. But I'm glad Mukul has called him on them. Apart from the points made, it is also rather vain to expect all muslims around the world to support Pakistan. Why can't people just thank "cricket fans all over the world"?

Mukul:

About Dhoni's captaincy, well he did pretty well in this 20-20 version of the game given the resources he had (Agarkar and Jogi etc). He backed his players and motivated well and extracted the max out of the talents they have. But I still believe it is just a bit too premature to assume him to be only adult in the indian cricket. Those who manage things well for a shorter period of time doesnt not necessarily manage equally well over an extended period of time. Similarly planning and execution over those 20-20 overs will be and it is quite a different thing from the planning required in a 50-50 over game. So it is still premature to assume things about his captaincy. But yes, we can definitely draw enough conculsion that he could be a good captain in making given proper chances. One thing for sure that he needs to check on himself is, too much media interaction that he tries to enjoy now. Indian media is nothing but premature, they make hero out of zero and a zero out a big hero in no time. The more you avoid them, the better you are doing. Dhoni needs to be watchful here.

And about Shoiab's comments, well he is just following all his predecessors. What else? This has been a trend in pakistani cricket for sometime. And this is a real sad thing to happen. I hope it was as a result of his bad or inappropriate english and he didnt really meant it word by word.

Good that Malik issue is brought up. If its an episode of lost-in-translation OR slip-of-a-tongue-after-a-banana-or-lost-cup, I am hoping he gets enough stick from both PCB and his English teacher. And an apology should follow... he has hurt his fans badly - at least, me.

MR SHOID, Will you please stop talking about talking about your religious sentiments in future. Please be aware that you are being watched by millions all over the world & immature talks like this will put a bad remark on your own country. Do you Know that Players Like Imran Khan & Wasim Akram had a great fan following in India?
To Tell YOU, ITs not RELIGION which can bring you supporters, Its only by the way you play good cricket.

In think he couldnt speak in English properly. His thoughts were in Urdu but he answered in English. Forgive him mates.

It can be hard to hide Pakistan's identity as Muslim nation is public statements. Even George Bush makes christian-like statements at times - "God bless America", "Crusade against terrorism", etc. Part of it can be intentional, partly its the way they are brought up and partly plain goof up.

Hi Mukul,
I read this article. Its really hurt when an international skipper comes and gives such kind of speech. I also felt the same thing when he has given this speech.
Anyways..

Chak De
Ritesh

Oh Commmon, surely you must be joking. Not everybody has the Queen's eloquence in English buddy. If the article was to be a resume booster, buddy you are in bad shape. The pride of the Pathan's, the bad decision of Joginder's last over, and to top it off the blasphemous Shoaib, dude, if you don't have anything about cricket to write about, you mustn't be writing here.

C'mon Mukul, you are making it a big issue. Everybody knows that Shoaib's English is not up to the mark and there are a lot of things going on in his mind when he is talking, probably translating his thoughts from Urdu into English. You can tell it by his face expressions. I saw his post-match interview myself and I was a bit shocked trying to figure out what was he trying to say. But if you realize its the month of Ramadan and all over the world Pakistanis are fasting and following cricket at the same time. Probably you dont know but back home special prayers are held at these moments.

So I think he just got a bit carried away in the selection of his words and the world recieved it in a distasteful manner.

Anyhow a great game of cricket. Congrats to India and heads-up for Pakistan!

Great article by Mr.Mukul!! It is inappropriate to talk about religion during the award giving ceremony. Even though I am an Indian, I always sympathasized with pakistan cricket. I felt sad for them when they involved in scandals, brawls etc. Shoab just undermined his captaincy and their team's performance by talking about religion. BUT I still wish them good luck!

Oh Common, surely you must be joking. Not everybody has the Queen's eloquence in English buddy. If the article was to be a resume booster, buddy you are in bad shape. The pride of the Pathan's, the bad decision of Joginder's last over, and to top it off the blasphemous Shoaib, dude, if you don't have anything about cricket to write about, you mustn't be writing here.

I agree Mukul. As an Indian Muslim I find it deeply offensive that Mallik chose to denigrate the collective lot of Indian Muslims rooting for India irrespective of religion. How does religion even come into this - its country first. Hopefully the PCB reprimands this outlandish behavior.

I would like nothing more than to let your elation pass for I am an Indian, I am a cricket fan, and I am elated too. But to say that Pataudi was the last great God?! Dude, have you heard of Kapil Dev? It's okay to be giddy but come on.

I agree with Sundeep .. I think this was more out of lack of knowledge of English knowledge than a Muslim sentiment.. From what I know about the Pakistani team and the culture of the people majority of this team represents, religion is a fundamental part but not an obsession which was evident from this statement. I still think that it was a little irresponsible on Shoaib's part and the irresponsibility was more due to lack of English skills .. take care all and congrats to all Indians ..

Hi Mukul,

Do you see how you have stirred a hornet's nest? This is in no way better a comment than Shoaib Malik made at the presentation desk. I will stp at this because this will only flare up more such arguments ending up in a unjust post-assessment of the tournament. A tournament that saw the rise of two super-powers in the sport of cricket. A tournament that beheld the rise of a new era of young stars coming up and taking the mantle of championing teams.

I believe more than 70% of the people who have posted before me have watched 'Chak De India!'. Did we get the message right? The message of playing the game for the love of it and winning it? Two youthful teams rose up to the occassion shoving aside mature mights of Australia and New Zealand. Surely, this is not what they deserve. Let's face it. They are young, they are expressive and whatever display they put up throughout the tournament was simply put 'fantabulous'. A difference of 5 runs takes nothing away from either of the teams.

Let's enjoy the moment. Not many of us Indians, here, grew up to sanity in '83. It is a moment to cherish for a 'lifetime' as MSK 'The Great' rightly put. But it also needs responsibility from our end to avoid inflammatory remarks or discussions to promote the game that took us two nations to echleons of immortality.

Long live India! More than walking - Keep Winning!

Guys, in my opinion it was a classic case of miscommunication. He did not literally mean what he said. But perhaps a little coaching or improving PR skills would not harm. Shoib should be aware that a billion people were watching him when he said what he did and that every word gets scrutinized in the media.

Having said that, religion and sports should not be mixed. Sounds cliched? Well, Pakistan, as some of my friends might be offended, has been guilty of similar things in the past and can do well without involving or discussing religion in public settings outside Pakistan. They are and have been a great team and should learn a few things.

When i heard that first, it sounded so stupid. Though Malik is not very good at English, i doubt that this is just a slip of the tongue. Even if it is, it reflects his thinking that pakistanis and muslims are synonymous. Religion is taking an important role in pakistan cricket in the recent times and this is reflected in what Shoaib malik said. As far as the names you have given in indian team, the last thing that come to my mind is their religion.

mukul..no matter how much you try to defend your article by cleverly quoting malik's statement 100% right do you really think that issue was so important..?? man look at the coments to your article they are more (or every single one of them..)regarding those religious grounds which you did not wanted..this the moment where two brilliant,enthusisatic, spirited & young teams triumphed in cricket..two teams which were never given a chance of reaching finals..these two young captains are in the process of providing best entertainment in the healthy rivalrly atmosphere which our two nations have tragically lacked in the past. should we just absorb these delightful moments and enjoy rather than making a big fuss about what seems to be a lack slip of the tongue at the end of high voltage drama.loosing the nerve can happen..at the end of the day that's what cost them a match and the championship..he is not meant to be best speaker or best politician..he's meant to be exelling in sport & i think he is on the right path.
let's enjoy the great moment for indian cricket..shall we??

Mr. Kesavan Shoaib might've had a foot in mouth moment, but you have done precisely the same thing. What he clearly meant was that he was thanking all the muslims who had prayed for the team. That includes Expat Pakistanis. And thank you and your cronies for pulling out the almanac and letting me know how India has more muslims than Pakistan. Quit acting like you're above others and stop being ignorant hypocrites who are simply waiting to attack the opposition. Like it or not, Pakistan is an Islamic nation and religion is an important part...

OKay like that man just lost a world cup final n dat too against INDIA..he waz sad n obviously dishearted..so like offcoarseee some thingz might cum out wrong..itz oki SHOAIB we're proud of ur team efforts..n i seriously SALUTE U!

you indians are buncha losers, i've heard of bad losers but never bad winners until now, india is not a majority islamic country no other test playing nation is, so muslims all over the world support pakistan which is a majority Islamic country, I as an american muslim got into cricket a while back and support Pakistan for the reason stated above, so stop being bunch of a holes and grow up, i mean honestly gain some reasoning skills

Your article does not make sense...it is smart to analyse a game instead of words. No one would catch a european's words if they say somethin incorrect in public!!just cause English mite be his second language. Shoaib and Dhoni are inspiring captains and will become good public speakers with time. Next time post somethin positive for the best game CRICKET

If GWB the commander in chief of the USA can declare the so called 'war on terror' as a Crusade then I am pretty sure that the young Shoaib Malik who was not educated at Princeton can say 'Muslims' instead of 'Pakistanis'(97% of whom by the way are muslims).
He was standing at the biggest stage of his life and and a mere slip of the tongue should not make him a demon.
Lets talk about cricket!.

As always, Kesavan hits the nail on its head. A captain of a team is supposed to know how to live in a pluralistic world and avoid bigotry. Shoaib Malik fails that test. I miss Inzamum now. Inzi is probably more religious, almost equally bad at English but had the good sense to avoid stupid, yes I do mean, stupid statements like Malik's.

Imagine an England or an Australian captain thanking Christians all over the world or an Indian captain thanking Hindus all over the world. For Allah's sake, don't put your foot in your mouth again, Shoaib!

This is exactly what I thought when I was watching the presentation. Pakistan cricket by no means represents the muslims watching cricket around the world. In fact, India has the 3rd largest muslim population in the world and Pakistan doesnt represent even one of them.

Kudos to the writer for bringing this point out

ok,for a while let us think this as sip of the tongue.why should he comment regarding the particular religion.one can do that onlty if he thnks about it.so my dear shoib pakisthan is not the only team which plays cricket so,learn to respect other nations and particularly other religions also.

I am a Pakistani (non-believer). I think Shoaib's comments were in poor taset. Please remember it is the holy month of Ramadan and a victory was certain for the believers. . It will take time to separate religion from cricket. The Pakistani team gets their strength from their faith. I really did not think that Shoaib's and his team does not represent those of us who are not on the same side of religion. If you have lived in Pakistan you know that talking about Islam and Allah is just "Hello" and "Whats up" in other nations. It is not saying that you only represent Islam. Even non-muslim use these words because it is part of every day language.

If India and Pak were one country, could any nation beat them in cricket? That is a question.

well...good to see a good positive thinking from everybody regarding this damn religion issue again in cricket....give him a break guys...he is more worried to face his country's people...because we asians are real maniacs when it comes to cricket..he led his team so well and did everything right he could have done given the team he got...if he had a couple of good top order batsmen...don't even think of the results with that bowling line up....its very sensitive issue but it happens in the thick of things and as said by many others here, he is very young, not good at english and has so much pressure on him and moreover is fuming with frustration to lose the match after so much of hardwork....it is very easy to say things sitting in front of a computer....
Mr.Mukul....nice article but could have dealt with the issue in a much mature manner like many others did here in blogs....

I am a Muslim from India living in US and rooting for INDIA. I was shocked when I heard what was being said in front of millions of people around the world by the captain of Pakistan. Mr. Malik simply made a wrong assumption that all Muslims were rooting for Pakistan! Mr Malik you have a right to believe what you want but making assumptions on behalf of the entire Muslim community is outright stupid and an embarassment to Mulims in general.

I must admit that when I read these words in the Cricinfo commentary, I was a little shocked. And I must also confess that no scribe would dare raise the issue - Let's just sweep it under the carpet is usually cricket's motto. So kudos to Mukul.

BTW, does the ICC's official code of conduct govern these utterances ? If not, it should. Otherwise, the post-match presentation could descent into chaos. I'm not citing just this incident - merely pointing out that the potential for it to go horribly wrong in the future as well exists. Somebody could, for instance, abuse the opposing team and get away with it. The penalties after the statements have been made are rather pointless.

Time will tell whether Shoaib was truly just nervous/inarticulate or there was a deeper and perhaps more disturbing sentiment at work.

But until then, 3 cheers to a great match, a great event and a well-deserved victory.

Great article Mukul. Your question warrants a forum for netizens to weigh in. It is important.

Personally, I am sure Shoaib didn't mean to say what he landed up saying. He must be meaning to thank his countrymen. It is Ramadan time, and thanking all things around makes sense and perhaps that's what he intended to say, he got caught in the moment and made it sound like it's us against the rest.

I sense there is mutual respect and recognition that is growing amongst die hard fans from both countries. Cricket won today.

Such an amazing game of cricket and is this what you have to say Shoaib and you Mukul?

this is the wonderful game. INDIA and PAKISTAN both team was played well. this is the big game . i am one of the great fan of INDIA..

What is being lost here is that Dhoni himself was not exactly seducing the audience with his repartees. Taking off his shirt etc. was not exactly a cricketing gesture. Neither was he friendly towards the losing team. He didn't acknowledge that Pak played a great game too. I'm a non-muslim Indian and I felt that if the Indians had given a hug to the Pak Captain then that would have been a great gesture befitting this difficult but close relationship of the neighbors! Afridi and Irfan were the only guys who kept their heads on when speaking at the presentation. Dhoni is no Dravid when it comes to talking to the mic. So spare Malik. Just enjoy the great win...Chak De India. Let the beer flow!

I just think it's taken out of context, and it was probably just a gaffe. That shouldn't detract from the cricket.

I have been reading the comments especially by my pakistani brother and they are coming up with... excuses one after the another after their captain had publicly made a very irresponsible statement. If you cant speak english - speak in ur native language. It just shows menatality of pakistani who think they are flagbearers of muslims all over the world. come on grow up..

Many in this board have asked to give Malik a break and it was a slip of the tongue. However, I think he meant every word he said because he stopped the presenter and said what he said slowly and precisely. It does not matter if he cant speak English, there is no room for religion in sport full stop.

as an indian muslim i felt a slight sting when i heard him say that,

but yeah i agree with a number of people on here who say cut the guy some slack - he's pretty young and it was likely a slip of the tongue. had this been a repeated offense the angry reaction might be more justified.

that said - hats off to the writer for having a keen ear..thats the point of journalism - to bring attention to things that might go unheeded. if anything its fostered a bit of healthy discussion which is always a good thing.

also - out of my own interest i checked some numbers (based on the oh so accurate wikipedia)
India's population : 1,129 million
Muslim %: 13.1
roughly 147 million muslims

Pakistan's Population: 161 million
Muslim %: 96
Roughly 156 million

lol...so...according to wikipedia...pakistan has a larger muslim population! (i always thought the opposite was true)..thanks for pointing this out mr. naveed

not that it matters really...both are so close.

Mukul,

I am an Indian, also a Hindu (which would usually be irrelevant, but makes for some qualification in this case), and I want to say that your post has left me disappointed.

Spare a thought, please, to the Pakistani players, who came into this match burdened by the expectations of a predominantly volatile and irrational fan-base (just like some Indian fans). Now, these are the same fans that laud heroes, raise them up to be Gods, and just like that, at a moment's notice, change colors and stone players' houses and issue death threats.

Living under such pressure is not easy, and performing is even harder. Nonetheless, these players dare to turn out for their country, knowing fully well that a bad performance might result in bodily harm of their loved ones back home. By partially quoting Shoaib Malik, you severely underemphasized the context in which he was making that statement. I believe he went on to say that he wants the fans to know that his team tried the best they could. As I was listening to him, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of desperate pleading from him, something which, if he could have said it, would have went something like, "Guys, we tried, it is only a game, and we tried to win. I am afraid of what you fans might do back home to the players' homes and families, and I am trying to do some damage control by trying to appease you."

Considering today's times, where fundamentalist and violent forms of Islam figure more prominently in the media, Malik's, in some ways, was a necessary statement. If there is anything unfortunate, it is that his fans have, over the course of time, created an environment where he felt compelled to make this statement.

Everyone is entitled to their thoughts, Mr. Kesavan, but, you could have exercised some restraint in airing yours. Like some here have said, this has all the ingredients of becoming a Muslim/Shoaib Malik/Cricket’s religiosity bashing forum, which I am sure was not your intention. You have visibility in the media, which brings responsibility. Yes, this responsibility includes accurate portrayal of what happens on the field, but what it doesn't is interpreting statements in erroneous, and potentially explosive ways. In the least, it begs mature thinking in favor of sensationalism.

The cricket match we were all fortunate to witness today was beautiful. It is why we all romance the sport. Please don't take away from that.

Regards,

dont make it a issue ..he said all these words to the muslims ..it has nothing to do with u guys ..anyways u guys played well and keep up the good work ..well played neighbours ..have a blast :)...see you in november :)

I dont think that he said something that should be taken out of context so much that... Mr. Mukul Kesavan would write an article about. I guess he does not have anything else to write about. The Indian muslims are INDIANS FIRST and THEN MUSLIMS and he knew that.He knows that the only people supporting Pakistan were Pakitani all around the world and we 99% happen to be proud Muslim. He was talkimng to his countrymen and wat the hell is wrong with you. Just write about other stuff and leave our amazing captain alone. You guys know deep down inside that you won both the games becuase of luck... plz go and practise some more before you start talking about the brightest and most talented captain in cricket world.

keep up the same rapport among our team

Let us leave at this. I will give him the doubt about language skills and he uttered Muslims instead of Pakistanis. In case it wasintentional he should lean fast as we had 2 Muslims in the team and had Zaheer was there then it would have been 3. I am certain better sence will prevail.

i think u guys should not forget about the moment he was facing that time, as a captain that was his first time he reached in the final of world cup and he lost, so we should not keep commenting on his statement, what ever he said that was only he was so confused and sad too, so please stop blaming him that much.......

shame on u mr mukul.....just read ur article and comments,the thing really surprise me the way u think mr mukul.am sure all u indian knows that pakistani team dont speak much english and shoaib malik didnt meant what he said so u should not even raised this subject but asusual typical indian who doesnt know how to forgive or understand the problem u started this thread.anyway i was going to say well played india but after reading this thread not now.see u soon buddy when it comes to one day series !!!!!!!!!!!!
long live pakistan

Shoaib....he shouldn't have opened his mouth. If he had to he should have spoken in Urdu. None of the Pakistani players (except a handful) can speak English. Anyway, I am an Indian muslim and MR ALI and all those who are defending Shoaib in the context of Ramadhan, he did not mean that. He was literally apologising to all muslims of the world. Who has given that idiot a right to represent the entire muslim population of the world. If it is Ramadan, why isn't he fasting instead of playing cricket. As a true muslim (as pakistanis often think they are) isnt it his first duty to fast for ALLAH rather than play for his ccountry. NO he did not mean anything other than what was uttered. He owes an apology, first to his country, then to all muslims of the world and then to the game of cricket.

I was shocked to hear that....unbelievably childish, ignorant and illiterate comment.

I am really sorry for pakistan

great article mukul, thats exacly how i felt when Shoaib uttered those unwarrented words. Its high time they realize that they are playing for a nation not religion.

Totally agreed with dwarak.... its a game but we people in asia do take it above the limit what if india wud have lost & dhoni wud have posted comments like this it happens after such a pressure game, hats off to both teams they really gave their best for the entertainment atleast most of the people are accepting it but be reallistic does every body in India & Pakistan think it that way... don't think so lets journey back WORLD CUP both teams got out & every body was on their heads to burn the teams out winning & losing is not every thing its about the game, so what he said some thing do we people in India really wanted Pakistan to win NO>>>> then why bother about it & secondly no matter what ever the result was the last 3 overs produced the best final overs of cricket in a long long time so please appreciate it don't ruin it by being sarcastic, its over now. Take care every body

This needs to be stretched beyond Shoaib. I completely agree with a statement once Shahrukh Khan made in one of his interviews somewhere "Educated Muslims are the nicest people"...it's just education and the "good" side of it! ...Simple. I am proud that I am an educated Indian and and I can shout at the top of my lungs that Shahrukh, Gulzar, Abdul Kalaam, Maqbool Fida Hussain and Azim Premjis are the nicest people of our generation

love your work mukul but give shoaib the benefit of doubt...sometimes some things truly are lost in translation!!

First of all MR. Mukul Kesavan i need to make one thing clear for you . Pakistani players as you know have a little problem communicating in english so whatever shoaib said and whatever u think he meant u need to really ask him to say that in urdu or HINDI cause u might not be able to understand urdu either , he didnt mean it liku have put it in ur blog ..its shame that person like u who has the power to write on cricinfo shoudl degrade a player like that . he wanted to thank muslim pakistanis who prayed for the team in ramadan so b4 u write sumthing stupid about sumone you dont even know u need to think twice ... people like you r the main cause of religion problems.. its easy for a desi to express his what he wants to say in his langauage .cause these guys they translate what they wanna say in their head b4 u they say so give a guy a break .and dont misuse ur power ..and also KINDLY DO NOT DELETE MY POST CAUSE I WANT THE PEOPLE TO READ THIS CAUSE I THINK YOU MADE A BIG MISTAKE BY BRINGING RELIGION IN IT

Please don't make a mount out of a molehill (which you always do). Don't you have anything else to focus on? Malik is not fluent in English and he chose the worng words or simply didn't organize them properly. Leave the poor guy alone. He's not a politician and didn't have to be politically correct. Lets relish the moment and enjoy the wonderful match. BTW Dhoni also forgot to congratulate the Pakistani team but as a first time captain (like Malik) he should be also excused. Please write something relevant next time you're using your keyboard.

I did not hear him say it. But having read the script, it appears to be a definite possibility that he was thanking people in Pakistan and people of Pakistani origin living all over the world (like in Canada, US, UK). The alternative perspective would mean that he was thanking Saudis and Iranians, and a whole lot of others. That does sound a bit far fetched. I would be careful not to be too judgmental without knowing for sure what he meant to say.

Well, yeah, it did feel a bit odd hearing that comment from Shoaib. I felt offended too, but in hindsight, I wonder if this was just a slip of the tongue. Perhaps he wanted to thank all the Pakistanis all over the world, and it just didnt come out right? He's not really the most fluent English epasking cricketer you'd find.

Perhaps we should wait and see if he offers an explanation for his statement (surely, he's already been made aware of this muck-up) before we pass any judgement?

If he did indeed mean Pakistani (and not muslim), it is forgivable, although he should try to be more careful in the future, heck, speak in Urdu/Hindi/Punjabi, there's no shame in that.

If he did indeed mean all muslims of the world, then it is an utterly despicable statement, questioning the patriotism of billions of Muslims around the world, not to mention his own team-mates Danish Kaneria and the batsman formerly known as Yousuf Youhana.

Lets hope it was just a slip of the tongue.

I'm pretty sure he was nervous and was thanking Muslims for Ramadan. Pakistani players have old tradition of not being able to speak. So people will always misunderstand them. Anyways, still at an international stage, he should watch what he says.

Kurshis- Indian Muslims are proud to be Indians. However, a Muslim is always a Muslim first. But that does not mean we support Pakistan in any way.

regardless of the comments, cricket won.
Really impressed with Misbah's fightback.India won the match but he won the hearts of millions of people.
At the beginning of the last over, Pak was on top.Think of that moment and as spectators/fans, all of us were tense. Brilliant execution with the courage of a tiger.

Malik isnt great when it comes to talking anyway. So might as well cut some slack here. Obviously he didnt mean in it in an offensive way and it was totally unintentional.

Being a Hindu, patience is in my blood. My sincere request to everyone is - please don't bring religion into cricket. Let Cricket be JUST THE CRICKET!!!!!!!

I absolutely agree with you Anwar. I dont know why these guys have to bring something like this after all we are the same people (sub-continent) I am a die hard fan of cricket(THE GAME). WE all know that most people in Pak are not good in expressing themselves in English and I knew something like this will become a big banner in articles. I can tell you guys he is one of the nicest guy you can hangout with and religion is far apart then sports even majority of pakistan understand that he was trying to say thanks to his fellow country men for their support from all over the world (which happens to be majority muslim) But again he will learn his lesson and will prepare some good speech next time :). Anyway I play with my Indian friends here in Houston and its always good competition. None the less India played really good I was really glad that Australia didnt will this trophy and I am sure WE all will agree on that :) Goodluck to pak future and Congrats to India.

Well written blog.....I never saw or heard malik making such statements. I hope and beleive the statement is because of his poor english rather than his approach to the game. If at all he really meant that, it is a real shame to the whole game of world cricket.

Roy David Choweller : "Not too long ago the country's cricket establishment found to it's dismay prayer was the way to success & not practice. Less mentioned the better else it gives credence to the utterence itself."

Comments like these really do annoy me. Yes the pakistani team have become more involved islam; it does not mean they do not have value in making effort. Look @ mushtaq ahmed for sussex for example; his county captain applauds his commitment. Then there is Mohammad yousaf: broke the record for the highest runs in a calender year. To say that these players did not make effort on their cricket by doing net IS REALLY BAFFLING. And then to blame their involvement in Islam as something that detracted them form net practice is a ridiculous comment. SO through your logic, pakistan got knocked out of the world cup in caribbean due to their islamic practices; that means all the indian team also was involeved in religious activity as they didnt really go far did they?...i think not.

BTW im a pak supporter; congrats to india for their victory. Ive got nothing against indian people / cricket. I just get heated when people are ready to get on some one's case over petty things. I lisetened to SM comments. Im under the impression he meant to apologies and thank all the supporters. Im sure he didnt mean to downgrade india and cause this debate. He even congratulated the indian team in urdu in the press conference. Give the lad a break

Again congrats to both teams for their heroic efforts

I absolutely agree with you Anwar. I dont know why these guys have to bring something like this after all we are the same people (sub-continent) I am a die hard fan of cricket(THE GAME). WE all know that most people in Pak are not good in expressing themselves in English and I knew something like this will become a big banner in articles. I can tell you guys he is one of the nicest guy you can hangout with and religion is far apart then sports even majority of pakistan understand that he was trying to say thanks to his fellow country men for their support from all over the world (which happens to be majority muslim) But again he will learn his lesson and will prepare some good speech next time :). Anyway I play with my Indian friends here in Houston and its always good competition. None the less India played really good I was really glad that Australia didnt win this trophy and I am sure WE all will agree on that :) Goodluck to pak future and Congrats to India.

shoaib malik indeed said the worng words... and the onlyh reason behind it is , which every one has unintentionally neglected ... these boys cant speak english properly... and thats wat happened there.. this is wat i think... and lets just not forget, its his first time.. he will grow more as a captain and more as a spokesperson of the team as time goes on...
indian won.. congratulation... pakistan lost... better luck next time...
bottom line ,a wonderfull game won today... not just a team....

If Shoaib Malik really meant what we have interpretted then it's pretty sad and he's not setting a good example. It is unfortunate that he's mixing religion with sport.
It was fantastic performance from Team India. We finally seem to have broken the Finals jinx. Kudos to Dhoni and his team. We can now forget our humiliating exit from the World cup earlier this year.

Why did Shoaib have to utter the word MUSLIM in a post match interview. It is totally uncalled for

Mr. Kesavan, all you said about Shoaib Malik is quite fine. But what about what you say about Dhoni being the only adult in the team ? You degrade Shoaib Malik (rightly so), but are yourself completely brash while ignoring how dravid won in england. You have forgotten it completely. You call yourself a cricket historian, but your fickle comments show that you are no different than the indian public who hit a man when he's down.

I think it was just a language skill error..im sure he meant to say pakistanis, but he said muslims due to the fact that the majority of pakistan is muslims, i think this article just makes a big deal out what he said, it wasnt intentional

I believe that Shoaib Malik who is more a rustic cricketer than a posh city slicker was simply trying to wish fellow Muslims for the Holy month of Ramadhan. Remember he had quoted before this finals itself that it was in the month of Ramadhan that they had beaten New Zealand in the finals and went onto win the 1992 finals and he wished the team would repeat the same feat here which unfortunately did not happen for him or the team. We all do understand that in today's world captains must be politically correct so as not to alienate anybody. Perhaps Shoaib will learn in time to rephrase his wishes.

I'm surprised at all the people who are cutting all kinds of slack for Malik. How come it is o.k. for him to say something like that and it would be terrible for a Christian or a Buddhist or a Hindu to say something similar? Double standards perhaps? Or is it dumbing down a segment of humanity and condescendingly not expecting too much from them?

If it is his English that is the problem, how come he hasn't apologized yet? He can apologize in Urdu or Arabic for all I care.

1. Shoaib Malik is not a media trained individual.

2. Shoaib Malik had just come off the most heart breaking defeat of his life.

Put those two together and you can understand why he said that. He looked absolutely broken during the interview. Plenty of the same people critisizing him for saying it might have said worse things under the circumstances.

Dear Mr. Kesavan,

I thought that was a very irresponsible article from you. I realize what Shoaib said was in bad judgement, and in all probability not intended to come out as it did, due to his lack of mastery in spoken english. But what you did by making a mountain out of a moehill and by faning the fire was totally irresponsible as an educated journalist. So I am hoping that Shoaib might have an excuse for making a not so very thoughtful comment (until he provides an explanation, unlike you I am willing to give him the benefit of the doubt due to sensitivity of this comment), I am not sure however if you have an excuse for trying to create a stir, except that you want readers to be furious about something that should've best been ignored. But you made sure to bring it to everyone's attentions, for what purpose, I can only speculate.

Given the history of our nations, I would think if anything we need to be tolerant of each other and learn to be forgiving of each other, as in the end we are all brethern of the same land, but journalists like you end up creating a deeper divide between the people of the same origin and culture. I agree that if someone of Shoaib's status truly makes a malicious statement like that then he should be held accountable, but I sincerely believe that it was a mere slip of the tongue and his intentions were far from malicious. Then why try to create a big issue from it? The only reason I can think of is to create a debate where it is not needed, and reading some of the comments from these posts, it seems like you have been successful in doing just that.

So shame on you for creating an unwanted political/religious debate out of an unfortunate incident!

Mr Varun kaushik,
Hats off to you. You have summarised the situation very well and Mr kesavan should think twice and research the context before stirring a hornets nest. Afterall he is trying to portray the difference between thoughtfullness and thoughtlessness; isn't he??? or is their some hidden agenda??? Having a blog column does not give anyone the rights to incite hate. In quoting Malik,is Mukul promoting religious tones himself?? a thought for the bloggers.

Most likely the man misspoke. But continuing your logic, two US sprinters in the 1960 Rome Olympics did a black power salute on the winner's podium, thereby betraying all white americans on the team and in the country! Readership is down, eh Mukul?

Mr. Shoaib Malik, keep your religion to yourself. You and your likes are the folks running your own country aground. Not only have you shamed your country-men by uttering those silly words, you have let yourself down in front of the millions of Muslims, who may, err, cheer for a different Nation. I don't expect you will understand any of this.

Nicely put Mukul. But I dont think thats what he meant. This has been a problem with all non english speaking captains, to utter something when they have no idea what they are saying. If I am right in thinking that is not what he meant, then they should have a translator or should get atleast a crash course in mediating their thoughts. If what he said was what he meant, then it is too late to mend the way these ignorant people think.

I think Kesavan has dwelled too deep to find some spice for this article and drawn baseless conclusions. Shoaib Malik can't speak english properly, yet he is forced to make comments at post match presentations in ENGLISH. It was completely a misinterpreted comment. I feel any team should be allowed to comments in any language in order to express what they really mean. Example: Malik uses the word superb five times in one sentence when he talks. Trust me...everything ain't superb!! That's the only positive word he knows!

We people just need reason to blame some one & to moan 'cuz with out moaning we can't be asians, we say we are educated but we fell far short behind educated level always we pin point the things we don't like but we never say that was a good one, I won't say its time for us to grow up 'cuz that we should have done a long time ago, remember GAWASKAR comments after winning WORLD CUP c'mmon guys how abt that, leave that poor guy & his team alone we were expecting a good final & both teams did it very well, infact to be very honest the last two overs MISBAH did unbelievable but after all that efforts do u think any body will reallise that no he will be blamed for not scoring the last 5 runs in Pakistan for a very long time, we were rooting for YUVRAJ YUVRAJ wut did he do he failed, but since we've won no body will bother saying any thing, so wut we do focusing ourselves on the poor losing team. Guys they will allready get a hell of stick of losing this match, please don't be a part of it. We should be the one saying thanks for giving a nice competition every minute was worthy watching. We are saying he hurt all the muslims in INDIA just for a second if we think & asses ourselves are we really that good muslims any way may be some percentage but not all of us.

We muslims do hell of a lot of ugly stuff & say bad things but we get away with it 'cuz not body is listening & yet some one says it on TV & we get hurt, be open minded its just a game & pressure imagine just watching the match was making all the viewers so nervous guess how much nervous SHOAIB mite wud have been. just put u'r self in his shoes & u'll get the answer I know most of the people will say I wud never such a thing thats why they say
ITS EASY TO CRITISE BUT HARD TO EXERCISE........

To be honest, the moment Shoaib said those word, I thought along the same lines as Mukul. It might be that Shoaib is afraid of his fans reaction back home and that is why he said like that

Great match. Good article. Both teams produced their best. In the end one has to win, it is India this time. Who knows who will be victorious next time. Dhoni and Malik should be lauded for their captiancy skills. They have a bright future as captians. Indeed Malik's decision to bring spinners from both ends shows the cricketing brian he possess.
But the comments that were made are unnecessary. We should keep sports out of religion. His words, they may be lost in translation or he did not utter them in proper order or he might have used one word for another, shouldn't somebody be pointing this to him. Why not we think that Mukul has done that here. If everybody remains silent who will tell this to Mr.Malik? Shouldn't we appreciate Mukul for taking a step in this direction?

Shoaib is learning and with time shall become politically correct. In the meanwhile congrats to Team India on the victory, this from a Paki supporter.

I agree with you Mukul completely. I am Indian first at the world stage and then a muslim.Yes we all have very high emotions and sentiments for our religion but they should be for ourself and the way we live our life.
Shoaib Malik is one of those pakistanis who fails to understand that sport is not to be mixed with religious sentiments.
I adore pakistan from imran khan- wasim akram- waqar younis days. They fight like tigers in the ground but Shoaib claiming that all muslims would only support pakistan is utter nonsense.
I dont think it is a slip of tongue; over the years we have heard inzamam also make such comments.
all i can say is shame to shoaib and pakistani muslims who have not grown out of stature to be good humans.
First be a good human yourself and then comment on religious sentiments.
Great Job India- Great Job Indians- We are proud of you.
About Shoiab type pakistanis- well sit and ruin the rest of your life as what happened.

I am sure it's just the lack of proper understanding of the English language and the moment he was in. It is a very emotional moment for him and he is a young guy...he should b given some slack but having said that he should make it clear what he actually meant...and to those guys who are posting comments with all broken English of theirs, giving false reasons of 'it being ramadan' and all those stuff, at least for once think rationally and then talk...Malik already created some nuisance with his statement and you guys please don't talk something else when you mean something else...

Give him a break. English is clearly not his first language and he is new to public speaking. He is not articulate, the occasion got to him, and Im sure he did not mean any offence to anyone. It came out wrongly thats all. After all Danish Kaneria is a star test leg spinner for Pakistan and a Hindu who has performed with passion against India and Mohammad Yousuf himself was formerly a Christian and always a star batsman. Yes the Pathan bros are Muslim as is SRK, todays cheerleader. But please can these Indian fans cut the lecture on secularism and pluralism because it just doesnt quite wash, when one hears of the plight of the vast majority of Indian Muslims being worse off than Dalits and massacred in Gujarat and Mumbai while the authorities look away. Well done to the Pathan bros and the Steven Seagal pony tailed overactor. But they are too few and far between for Indians to turn this into a proof of Indian tolerance and multiculturalism. So please give it a rest and enjoy the victory that Misbah gifted you for the second time in less than a fortnight.

I was a shocked too when I heard him say that and being a Pakistani supporter I just said too myself, "Oh dear what has he just said."
I was hoping the media would not notice that and make that a talking point and butcher him.

Yes I agree that was his ignorance speaking and I felt offended by it but lets remember his predecessors have been Inzamam ul Hag and others who have brought in so much religion into the side perhaps he was bound to think on those lines.
I am sure the Pakistan Board will have a word with him about that and he will be careful the next time he speaks.

I think he meant all the Pakistani supporters and not all the muslims in the world. It was a fantastic match.

As many have pointed out, it was probably a slip of Malik's tongue - something that can happen to someone unintiated to the entire world listening to you and watching you.

But that only goes to prove what was on Malik's mind. A slip of tongue is defined as the moment when you do not adorn or wrap your true feelings to make it more presentable. Even if Malik had told more suave and graceful sentences, now we know that he was thinking "Muslims" in his head.

That said, there are also thousands of Hindus who think "we are playing Muslims" when India plays Pakis. Malik is not the only person to think like that. Discussing the roots of such thinking will be a lesson in history, psychology and religion. And for god's sake, this is cricket!

We should not punish somebody for a crime that sometimes we commit too. That is exactly why I think we should forgive Malik and give him a big hug and say, hey mr. muslim - we are hindus but we love Pakistan dearly. Love is the only cure to this.

imagine how stupid he would sound if Bangladesh had just beat them instead of India

Why was Shahrukh looking like Michael Jackson? Hair style, jewelry, black suit, makeup.. Odd..

I was also a bit offended when I initially heard that, but realize that its a natural mistake from his end as Pakistan is so overwhelminly muslim, he unintentionally used muslims, where he meant pakistani's. give the man a break. he lost a final so narrowly and was not in a great state of mind to talk and that too in a language he does not seem to be comfortable in.

He is a native hindi/urdu speaker and words dont come out right when you have to speak in english when billions are watching and 'judging every word you speak'. It was a honest mistake.. definitely forgivable.
Little bit of common sense -- if thats what he has in mind, would he say it? No! Its cricket that has won today..lets not make it a victory for religion.

Please give Shoaib a break. You can see from his English that it is not good. He meant Pakistanis all over the world. It is a month of Ramadan and lots of praying going on for the world cup and any one after losing everything they had can mixup some words.

I am sure he meant Pakistanis not Muslims. Don't make a big deal out of this. I hope this thread is removed.

Atleast someone double check this before making a mountain out of mole hill. Shame on the blogger to get cheap publicity out of it.

You should work for some tabloid instead of cricinfo.

Good starting point Kesavan to discuss on the ridiculous statemnt uttered by Shoaib. These statements should definitley be condemned for its very nature of disrupting the game's spirit. Shoaib is a BIG-TIME MORON in not getting the fact that MOM was Irfan Pathan (a Muslim). Yousuf Pathan, also a MUSLIM, had hit a second-ball-career six in the first over obviously not supporting pakistan. Immatured ppl and statements like these sure are irritations and better stay away from cricket.

I too did hear it LIVE & found the remark by Shoaib Malik odd.
Now I'm not trying to be too judgemental over here but I completely agree with what Mukul Kesavan said...

But u know what... Lets just spare a thought for that poor guy, having lost the Mother of all matches inspite of an inspiring performance must have emotionally shattered him....

Lets not make a fuss of all this anymore...
& this Forum is about talking cricket...
all Social/Political/Intellectual stuff can wait for an appropriate forum.

CONGRATS to all INDIAn fans!!
LETS CELEBRATE !!

Sometimes it really hurts, but don't you think, reason lies in us. I am purely Indian supporter, and I know we over-enjoyed this moment because we won over Pakistan.
Hating each other is a part of our blood and thats what we learnt from begining of our life, though it is really childish for us. When watching 1992 final, I was praying pakistan win that match. Definitely I like their team and sport spirit, their blowing aggression, but reacting it over religious is never accepted. I am happy that India won and Pakistan is runner up. Both won actually, if you see them carefully. I could be equally happy even if pakistan was winning the match, because after leaving India/Pakistan, I could see that whoever wins, thats our country and we won at end. Both are my mother land, and I proud for that, but feel sorry for their bloody roots and bloody national politics based on haterous nature to each-other.
I CONGRATULATE BOTH TEAMS ON THEIR WINING THIS TOURNAMENT. Keep in mind, this is not from one country's representation, this is merely a company such as BCCI or PCB and their mates. Not playing on a country. If you are winning for country then go to Olympics and win gold there.

Arshad, You hit the nail on its head..

I understand whatever may be the reason why shoiab might have said those words.. Statement made is made. we need to move ahead and enrich people with keeping religion out of sport.

Though and Indian and Hindu, I am a fan of pakistan cricket and like every talent pakistan has and wish we had one team India and Pakistan together :)

Congrats to Dhoni who held his nerve. And thanks to pakistan team who gave us an amazing final in any world cups so far. It was breathtaking!!

!!KEEP RELIGION OUT OF SPORT!!

The comment was inappropriate and someone ought to educate Shoaib of all his responsibilities. He is a young man and will learn with time. the article was good and correct, however all the comments give the feeling of an overkill.

Let us not compound the error by escalating sentiment, instead let it pass as an error of youth

A look at the other side - Shoaib may have gotten a lot of support from muslims (though not all) all over the world and was moved to acknowledge them. Let PEACE prevail.

What a great way to end a spectacular tournament! Well played, India and Pakistan. Hope the youngsters of both the teams carry the momentum on.
Brave of you to have written about Malik's comment, Mukul.. it was totally unwarranted(the comments at the podium that is), and i like many others who were genuinely enthused by the decrease in rhetoric and the increase in quality of the recent India-Pakistan cricket matches are very very disappointed. May be its just that as many put here, he just couldn't express what he wanted to say, but, hey, on a stage like this, why oh why bring religion on at all?
am a secularist and i do believe that religion is a very personal thing and not to be flogged around in public, but then what if an Indian, English or an Australian captain were to utter similar thoughts in such a public forum? all hell would break lose.. so why shrug off the matter now? Stages like this and what people say influences the thought process of many thousands and thousands..the least what one can do is be careful of what one is saying and events like this only highlight how important it is, to be aware and understanding of the sentiments of others around one too.
Hope the spirit of the game doesn't get drowned in one man's moment of thoughtlessness..

bang on target mukul....that was the weirdest thing i have heard in the presentation. Till that point i thought that shoaib malik is a smart and an intelligent individual but sadly he proved me wrong. Great Post!!!

I was appauled by the Pakistani captain's choice of words, or perhaps his ignorance. He certainly needs lessons on being progressive and a good role model. I have great respect for the rest of their players for their proffesionalism.

I can't believe you actually wrote half an article on that, do you have nothing better to do? It is obvious to anyone but the most cynical that Shoaib Malik did not mean what you are implying he meant.

There is no benefit in trying to stir things up. So, If you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything.

Grow up and act your age.

Hi,

I agree with lot of folks on the blog. Lets not make a mountain of this. It might be a language problem or translation issue.

Lets enjoy the moment of beating the Aussies/South Africans and NZ's.

Iam a muslim from india Mohamed Ibrahim and iam proud to be an indian.Though i have always cherished indian victories and have been dejected when they lost,i think cricket is a seprate religion in itself so no religion or race should be mixed in it apart from cricket itself.i dont know wether it was just a slip of shohib's tongue or was intended by him, a mistake is a mistake.Shohib Malik is one of my most favourite batsman and i felt bad about pakistan losing the final but that one sentence made me take a deep breath to accept that he actually said that.Well what ever the case might be we cricket lovers(not pakistani,not indian not any other nationalist) have only one request "please dont mix any religion with cricket".we will lose the great taste of it.at this same time i want to thank both indian n pakistani cricket teams for such a cracking cricket match.

Mukul, good article, but somewhat surprised you are wishing to seemingly take the glow away from a great match. Malik is not as eloquent at English as Dhoni, Dravid, Ganguly or Tendulkar and I too think he meant ‘Pakistani's round the world.’ Pakistan was created as a Muslim state, and in his confused and disappointed state he said the word Muslim instead of Pakistani. Pakistan’s tend to regard their nation as a Muslim one, and I feel this is a slip of the tongue and anyone with any decency would not expect there a need to be an apology. Malik is no Inzi - give him some credit.

Pakistan has some 10 millions non Muslims, 3 famous ones have played cricket, Anil Dalpat, Kaneria (his nephew) and Yousuf Youhana. The world has 1,200,000,000 muslims, and no-one could suggest they are all supporting Pakistan’s 150 million. You summed up all the muslims playing for other countries so I won’t again, but I think you are taking this too far and forgetting why you are on Cricinfo - FOR THE CRICKET!

If you have taken offence, I think you should speak to Malik directly, otherwise it just looks like you are trying to fan flames of discontent in your position as a journalist and I am disappointed you are abusing this mantle.

A thrilling game and finale. While Gul bowled wonderfully, RP and Pathan hardly had bad runs, Afridi got the wickets (and smacked a few boundaries along the way) but as with Hayden and his highest runs - his contribution did not lift the trophy or get his side in a position to do so. As with Afridi’s 45 ball 100 against, ironically, India a couple of years back - all the talk for the remainder of the series was on the Afridi effect - YUVRAJ’s 6 sixes, 50 in 12 balls and 70 in 30 balls was all the pre-final talk and though he could not pull this off today - he lit up the tournament and was my Man of the Series for his unbelievable skills. Afridi, Sehwag, Gibbs, Gilchrist and even Mascarena’s would have been in awe, as we all were.

Mukul, come round for tea sometime and we’ll talk about life issues (and cricket!). We have enough hidden agenda’s in this world, don’t stoke up the flames - you’re no Bollinger.

Shoaib's from my city Sialkot and I know him personally and he didnt mean a thing other than the fact that muslims across the world are fasting in the month of Ramadan and those in Pakistan were praying for Pakistan to win , like in 1992. He wanted to thank them for their prayers and here the Writer, intentionaly knowing this, still makes a mole out of a mountain. My question to Mukul is: have you ever talked to a Pakistani player in Urdu. If u haven't please do that, u'll be struggling to keep up. English, thats another matter altogether.
This reaction at this forum is a classic example of the fact that **people actually think about religion when these two nations play** , religion is embedded in our gene no matter what. A bunch of pretenders you all are , scrutinizing this statement from a man you don't know.

Let me first congratulate you on the excellent article.

It really irked me when i first heard what the CAPTAIN said, to be frank i don't accept the trash talk of the captain not being good at english etc, being a captain of a team and at such a big even i am very sure he meant exactly what he wanted to.

After such a great match the mood was spoiled by just one statement according to me faith is something you keep to yourself, don't show it too much publicly or try to force onto others, you spoil your own image.

Entire world must have been watching this match and he has insulted all those who had supported pakistan. Let them get it first that its a game and religion and faiths have no place here.

I have gone through all the comments added till now and have seen the excuses given for Shoaib's comments. His English is flawed, he did not mean it, blah blah blah.

Well, may be Shoiab did not mean what he said, may be it was a slip of tounge, but this comment was very irresponsible, irrelevant, out of context and very provocative specially for all Indian Muslims. If he thinks that Muslims around the world would be supporting his team, then he has got it terribly wrong. The fact that a guy named Pathan won the Man of the Match award is poetic justice to what he said. If you look at the margin of victory, you can say that six another Pathan hit at start of the match made the difference. For us its India, we are and we will always be Indians first.

Yes, its Ramadan, and I and many other Indian Muslims are fasting and praying, and we pray for our team. Also, he should have also thanked many of his non Muslim supporters in Pakistan and around the world.

In the end I would like to say that its high time that the Pakistani players find the right balance between the game and religion. They are playing excellent cricket right now. I dont question their faith, but they need to keep that to themselves. 100% Christian Australian team has won the world cup 4 times. I have never seen them thanking Jesus on stage. As the old Urdu saying goes, "Himmat a Mardan, Madede Khuda." God helps those who help themselves.

I am an Indian and I always followed Indian team but at the same time I admire lot of great players from Pakistan and Pakistan team as well and I watched the whole match and I enjoyed every moment of it. Whether it bowling from Gul and batting from Gambhir and by just looking into the match seeing India and Pak are playing in the world cup final is a treat when lot of people say they are not professional and consistent. But Mr. Shoaib ruined the whole party by saying those things. Next time be care mr. Mallick.

Well written article...KUDOS TO INDIA..
I hope shoaib meant 'pakistanis' and not 'muslims'..hope he'll clear that out soon..

The words uttered by Malik are disappointing but he is a cricketer not a journalist or a politician. I would cut the guy some slack; more so because most muslims other than those in southeast asia don't even know what cricket is. So Malik perhaps really didn't mean what he said.

At one hand, we have a good cricketer and a poor communicator who -- most likely -- had no intention of creating politics. At the other hand, we have a eloquent writer who is politicizing something that really wasn't a big deal. Who is to blame?

It was just a slip of tongue guys... he meant to thank all Muslims who prayed for Pakistan in the month of Ramadan... now you might be a Muslim who prayed for India instead... and there's nothing wrong with that.

After such an exhilarating final,it is hard to believe that the most memorable thing for many here is the spontaneous utterence of Malik.Did Malik wax lyrical about his team's performance? Did his 'speech' betray any, and I repeat any, indication of being planned ahead of the presentation? I very much doubt so. What Malik intended to say was to thank his fellow Pakistanis, more than just a few of whom live outside Pakistan, who would have loved to see their country lift the trophy. Clearly, in his haste he mistakenly said Muslims for Pakistanis 'all over the world' since Pakistanis are, indeed, mostly, but by not means only, Muslims by religion. He was cetrainly under no delustion that Muslims paralysed the world over as they watched with bated breath deperately hoping for Pakistan's triumph.Malik must be thinking about the reception he would receive at home and abroad from fellow Pakistanis and whether he let them down. He was by no means implying that all or that only Muslims backed his team, much less questioning or scorning the loyalties of Indian Muslims, about whom he clearly did not say anything. To assume otherwise would be ridiculous- and no less parochial than what many are tacitly associating Malik with.

One of the best finals anyone can bargain for. An India-Pakistan encounter has been, is and always will be a show stealer...get them both in the finals with both teams performing the best they have in years, is the icing/frosting on the cake (to say the least) for a high energy tournament like this. i'm a huge Indian cricket fan, and every single time India is ousted from tournament, my second choice is either Pakistan or Sri Lanka, only because of the electrifying (most read as unpredictable) style of cricket they play.
Getting to the point - is this blog really necessary??? why cant people just be happy with the entertainment that these two fantastic teams have provided us with? Long live Pakistan and India cricket!

Dhoni has shown amazing maturity and poise in his first outing as captain. A good challengers to the tottering oracles who monopolise Indian Cricket.
But to annoint him as "the only adult" and last Samurai of Indian cricket, in my humble opinion, is a bit premature.

@ danishamin .. Yes shoaib should be given slack, agreed!!
but dear Danish..are u for real ?
do u only support Pakistani team for they are muslims ? (They are ofcourse) but they are great & passionate cricketers with a rich history and a great fan following in India too. Not because the fans in India have the same religion but because of the talented players pakistan produces. Im an Indian and with an unfluttered mind feel like I must shout out loud..religion and sport have no OVERLAP!
@ mukul- my man..im glad u have hung the skeleton from within the closet in broad daylight..

I think Mukul is making a mountain out of a molehill. English is not Shoaib's first language. So in the immediate aftermath of a nerve-shredding affair, an innocent, thanks to all Pakistanis became a reference to Muslims!

Cricinfo should stick to what it does best - reporting and discussing criket matters.

Thanks Mukul. At last an article that points out the idiocy of Shoaib's comments. I am surprised that his comments did not find any mention in any of the leading news websites. After such a stupendous game of cricket, when I was almost ready to hand it to Pak for a terrific match, his comments spoilt it all for me. And to all those people who say it was a mere slip of tongue...well, wait till an Indian/English player says sorry to all Hindu/Christian fans of their team on losing and then let us see how generous everyone is about it! When you represent your country at such levels, there is a huge responsibilty on your shoulders to watch your words...defeat or no defeat...

why cannot pakistanis understand that the game was between two countries and not between two diverse religion. the comment made by pak skipper will only earn him anger rather than the sympathy by much wiser muslim cricket fans

Please don't make another mistake by saying...
"he was thanking muslims who had sent him messages from all over the world not thanking all the muslims in the world..."

What about non-muslim people who sent messages/wishes to pakistan team...why he chose only Muslim people to say thanks?

Why even he should utter word "Muslim"? and please don't point to his communication skills, his com skills are much better when compared to previous Pakistan captains. Was he thinking about his in-laws who might be supporting him?

He was wrong to say it, plain and simple.

Dear Mukul,
I think you've allowed your emotions to take over while commenting on how Shoaib allowed his emotions to take over during the awards ceremony. I completely support the post below by another reader of your wonderful blog. I've pasted it here for reference.
Your column is wonderful, keep it up.
-Arjun.

"Posted by: Nouman 1 hour, 59 minutes ago

...He thanked people in Pakistan and Muslims around the world. What did he thank them for? For praying for/supporting the Pakistan team. How does that question the loyalty of Indian muslims? If you're a Muslim and didn't support Pakistan, he didn't thank you. If you're not a Muslim and you prayed/supported Pakistan, he didn't thank you. Perhaps he forgot you, perhaps he didn't want to thank you or perhaps he doesn't know you exist. He isn't under any oblgation to thank anyone, so you can't hate him for that.

In the future, stick to cricket."

Excellently said shakeel, i wanted to convey the same thing and thanx for doing it.

I firmly believe that Shoaib blurted out that sentence due to his lack of command over English. I can almost say for sure that he just wanted to thank the muslims during the month of ramadan praying for him and his team. Regardless, the guy is as entitled to say what he wants just as Dhoni is entitled to take off his shirt in front of more than a billion viewers. That again was at the spur of the moment. So Mr. Mukul Kesavan, for heavens sake don't give this a communal or a religious color because everyone had fun watching the final for the entertainment it provided. You don't need to get attention by highligthing something that came out of a mouth of a 25 year old who was leading his team in the world's biggest stage and had just lost the final. I'm a Kashmiri muslim and support Pakistan and will say it openly. Shah Rukh and Irfan were born in India and they can show their allegiance to India, none of my business. Get on with the game stop messing up a good game with your attention seeking tirade.

When you have mic and millions of people watching on, mistake could happen, let's move on,
-Malik should have avoided the word "Muslim" and used "world wide pakistan supporters" instead.
-Dhoni should have acknowledged Pakistan teams for their wonder full performance.
It is easy to say such things sitting on a sofa from our launch room.
Congratulations to Dhoni and team, Keep it up, As a NRI living abroad we all look forward to see more good cricket from you guys! also well played Malik and team you have good future to become one of the top tems in cricket.

Okay guys - stop wasting your time in analyzing an unintentional mistake committed by a new and young losing captain. Just substitute the word "Muslims" with the word "Pakistanis" and the problem is solved! He was probably nervous because of the big occasion and he was asked to speak in English which for sure is not his mother tongue!

you guyz misinterpret everything and try to find every little detail to embarrass the pakistanis......india won....be happy!!

it was a fitting finale for an exciting tournament.this by far i guess would rank next to India's 83 worldcup win.its a great feeling to be crowned WORLD CHAMPIONS again

I think It was just poor communication from Pakistani captain and he didn't mean it. He was very uncomfertable talking in english and should have answered in Urdu instead.

and if i remember clearly, i believe dhoni did not congratulate Pakistan for a wonderful match. Its only sportsman spirit, but me being a supporter of cricket expect both captains to thank each other and their opponent team for the day. I expect mr mukul to write a 1000word script on this minor issue as well. afterall, i believe new inexperienced captains, like Malik and Dhoni, need to bite the rock on their first day on the job eh?

Ignore. It doesn't matter what he said. In the end, one team lost and the other won and everyone else had fun watching it.

I'm curiously wonder what he might have said had they won? Would he have thanked Muslims and Islam for winning their cup for them because to me, it sounded like he was apologising to the latter that they lost. That can't be right can it?

Very well said.......I was very upset after hearing Paki cap.'s words....but i give him a benefit of doubt and think he should have talk'd in urdu. None the less AMAZING job by India...brillantly played and good job in the death by the bowlers and esp. fielders

I am very PROUD TO Have Muslims like Irfan and Zaher play for India.

I think Malik is not good in English so what he spoke wast not what actually he want to say. As there was no need of religion to point out there.

Thanks Mukul for speaking out. I could not watch the match live but I read the statement in cricinfo commentry. I was taken aback to read that. I just concluded watching highlights and I still cannot believe what he said.
I was also taken aback because none of the other articles spoke about it. So I must thank you for speaking out. For once, I felt that this pakistan team was being well lead but Shoaib Malik just lost every ounce of respect that he had earned. I would really like to hear from him whether he really meant what he was saying. I hope to hear that he was lost in translation as many of the sub-continent players do, at times. I still hope that is the case.
I do not want to see players making cricket a stage for religious divisiveness and making political statements. To do this on such a big stage, purposefully, is just wrong.
Everyone has a right to believe in their religion but to suggest that every Muslim that does not support Pakistan team is an insult to them. I very very strongly object to it. This kind of divisive attitude from the people who are idolized by masses alienates more people and gives chance to people who just want to use this kind of message for their propoganda war, on both sides.
I still hope that he did not mean it. I really do. It hurts me. This, at a moment, when we had an opportunity to forget everything and celebrate cricket, beyond religion, beyond nations, beyond everything else but cricket.
I still hope.

I agree with Mukul - However I do believe that by commenting on this he has done what he sought to prevent. Make a political and religious issue out of this..make angry people angrier and breed more hatred. Restraint is wonderful. Try some..
And finally - please remove this entire chain of comments, including mine and the article. Lest keep this a cricket site Mr Kesavan.

I agree, i was jolted by surprise and shock the moment I heard that statement from Shoaib. I hope it was just the nervousness and the tension of losing to india that made him utter the statement. One of my friends suggested that the statement was not intended and it happened because of his limited english vocabulary and hence the direct word-to-word translation from Urdu. It could be true. Any case, give the benefit of doubt to the captain and let us not make this a big issue.

Wow, India won the cup!!! that's a really exciting news. I couldn't believe my eyes when i saw that. But Malik's statement was dejecting. In India there all sorts of religion, like muslims, hindus, sikhs, christians, jains, buddhists, jews, parsis, and many more. It's a victory for all of them. Muslims all over the world didn't lose. ...It's a victory for Indians as whole (includes all religion, languages, ethnicity). Pakistan played fantastic so it's a victory for them too. but religion shouldn't be brought over here. India rocks!!
After, Sania beat Martina Hingis, India winning Nehru cup football, India winning asia cup hockey, India winning tri nations rugby, and then India winning this world cup. What could be a better year.
It's time for all Indians to forget the differences they have and join together in celebration.!!!!

Mukul, I was also stunned when malik uttered his words, but I reckon, it could not be premediated in the heat of that moment. The man must have undergone tremendous stress and would have uttered the words without thinking. He seems to be a simple guy and I dont think any religious thoughts should actually be associated with it. Lets forget what he said and enjoy the moments that made for one of cricket's glory days. All Indians and Pakistanis (players and fans) had a superb camaderie during the game and focussing on something that's best forgotten, should not spoil the taste!

And now just to talk cricket..
Dhoni y getting in Yousuf Pathan and making him open, reminds me of one of the greatest captains in world cricket - Imran Khan!!! So we have a very young Imran Khan for India .. Wow!!

Muslim is always a Muslim first?Mr.ali nihal shame on you.try to defend a brother when he is wrong and mixing religious with the sports is very wrong.It was well played and remarkable game.But somebody has to lose. It was a wrong statement,he should come out and correct it.I am a bangladeshi muslim and was rooting for India.Lets keep the sports out of religious,race,etc.just injoy the game.thanks

I was watching the match and at one point felt very proud, moved when Irfan (a muslim) bowled to shahid afridi and sreesanth took the catch (a christian) and Dhoni (a hindu) jump in joy followed by Harbhajan( a sikh) race towards Irfan to celebrate the dismissal. Essence of India.
Looks better in light of Maliks immature comments.

Congrats India!!!! - Well played, almost gave alot of us heart failure in the final over. Shoaib Malik's comment came across as controversial - quite uncalled for - What about Danish Kaneria and his match winning efforts for Pakistan down the years - What about Yousuf Youhana's efforts when he WAS Yousuf Youhana and Christian!!! It reminds me of a Viv Richards comment made in the caribbean wqhen West Indies were still a cricketing power. It went something like Cricket is an African man's sport. Obviously this ignored the contributions to made to West Indian cricket by Kallicharran, Khannai, S. Randin, Chanderpaul, etc. It is quite needless and quite embarassing. I am an indian from Guyana and us Guyanese always have a soft spot for India especially the guys from Bhojpuri region!

The moment i heard him using that phrase i knew he would be in trouble because there are mant media scandal inventors out there who live on such silly mistakes. I am so sure the poor young guy who had worked so hard over past few months was disappointed and feeling low due to such close defeat. He is not good with words like Wasim Akram or Dravid. Look at Dhooni I have not seen him in single presentation giving credit to others. He has been singling out his players and their efforts or his captaincy skills.."I told guy i dont care if we loose i just want you to ball in right place"...Afridi congratulated Indian team, Sunil Gavasker termed it as a win for cricket. I think we should let him go with this mistake. He has a lot time to learn. I am sure Mukul Kesavan doesnt have to go and watch whole match again to forgive him over his one mistake. It was a beautiful match played in high spirits by both wonderful teams, only person i feel sorry for is Misbah who deserved to be Man of series

lets just not start holy war here.. this could be a mistake of communication. lets give him a break. I understand from the point of view of the writer you have nothing else to do but write. lets just write something good. ya!!!! This two country have played excellent cricket here. appriciate that and please don't spoil the mood thanks.

Just wanted to point.... India stands 4th in Muslim population. Its after Indonesia, Pakistan and Bangladesh. And it is not wrong for him because he does not come from a secular country. And above all muslim means "those who believe in submission to GOD"... OK this might be a bit more than wanted, but certainly this can be forgotten by those who consider themselves secular or able to separate cricket and religion.

Mukul, I usually like your articles but I think this time you have abused your power in a way. I understand that you are shocked with what Shoaib said. I was too. But having said that, can you be absolutely sure that he meant that Pakistan plays for only Muslims? Could it have been a lack of fluency in speaking English? Are you telling me that you, who has probably never spoken to Shoaib ever, knows what the exact answer is? And even if we assume that 'you' think that he said he plays for only the Muslims, is it ethical for you to publish your speculation on this cricket site because it is nothing else but a speculation? Especially when you know that religion is such a sensitive topic.
In a way, you have succeeded in taking the focus away from the cricket and highlighting religion. I am sure that was just what everyone wanted just a few hours after an amazing game. And by the way, I hope you have read Imran's excellent comment on your use of the 'loser' word for Shoaib. Should you be judged by the same standards that you set for Shoaib or by a harsher standard, given that you are a writer (in English) and that unlike Shoaib, you had the opportunity to proof-read your article and correct any errors before publishing it.

Malik is not that religious or what you guys calling 'Fundamentalist', he must have mixed up 'Pakistanis' with 'Muslims', m sure. I was also feeling viered of listening to his comments. But I think he can be given a discount of error as he was really nervous. I m a Pakistani Muslim but I dont have any discrimination about any other religion or i dont thnk Pakistani think that they are playing for islam instead for Pakistan. Thanking Allah is a personal act. Islam teaches to be Patriots to your soil.
RAHUL!!! you r absolutely right Misbah has won the hearts of the millions.

Guys give Shoaib a break......he was under lot of pressure ....Pressure of All Irrational Fans ....Pressure of India- Pakistan Match.....Pressure of General Mush.....Pressure of ALL MUSLIMS (LOL) WORLD WIDE ...... and Mother of All PRESSURE ----Ding Ding----BOB WOOLMER CAse ......ahhahaahhahahahqa

You're looking way to much into the comments of someone who can't even speak english that well. No one should take that seriously, because if said in Urdu, his reply would make much more sense.

CricInfo has pointed out a good thing but i request not to make it an issue by publishing that huge articles over it.

Seriously all you guys...especially Mr Kesvani, give him a break, please! He's not the most fluent speaker of English and he doesn't have to be either to play international cricket. He probably meant to say Pakistanis or Pakistani supporters but got confused in all the chaos that a post-final presentation ceremony is. To all the silly fans (including the writer) who are feeling so offended and digusted, try putting yourselves in his shoes: speaking to a worldwide audience and that too after losing a world cup final. As far as all Pakistanis are concerned, we know he is one of the most liberal, moderate and open minded guys in this outfit. So please, stop pondering over this minor, senseless issue and savour the big positive of the day, i.e. Quality Cricket!

Really surprised at MR. Kesavan to bring this matter up on his blog.

I think a lot of people including our writers of cricket are totally missing the essence of the win here.

It was a true game of genius. Both teams played exceptionally well. Half way though I had my money on Pakistan, although I am Indian, I thought Pakistan had done really well to ristrict India to under 160. The won quite a few decisive battles during that first half.

India's opening pair vs Pakistan opening Bowling attack ==> Pakistan Won
Yuvraj vs Umar ==> Pakistan Won
Look at some of the previous big game and see if that has been a good reason why India has emmerged on the winning side.

Rest of the innings had gone as I had expected.

But what happened in the second half of the game was something new this New Look Indian team has developed, that is so Non Indian of them.

To win a game of basis of there bowling when Batsmen has not done much. To be honest, it is so Wasim-Style of this new look Indian Team, dont say it's over till it's over, or till the last ball is bowled.

The way India bowled was truely sensational, they bowled with Fire, with Reason, with Resposibility, with Control.

Every thing frome the first ball of the game till the fall of Shoiab Malik's wicket had gone Pakistan's way. After his wicket India had a first look at the trophy. It was crucial because Pakistan has been in similar situations in the past games and has come out as easy winners at the end. India has also been in similar situations against Australia and South Africa while defending totals and has taken crucial wickets at crucial times, that is just not the Indian way of winning cricket matches. From there onwards India kept picking important wickets one after other some thing other teams could not do against Pakistan, because of there strong middle order. Keeping Joginder Sharma for the last over is not a fluke, that was Dhoni's strategy he used successfully against Australia as well. Mantra is simple, use inexperienced bowlers when pressure is on the batting side so they dont cost as much and pickup the unlikely wicket and that worked like a beauty. Under pressure, Misbah chose the wrong shot and India won. Before that a couple of really poor overs from Harbhajan and Sreesanth showed what can happen when preasure builds up. So in the end, a great game of cricket, nice to see the subcontinent teams play the final and show the world that the reason why they are in the final is not a fluke it's because they play to WIN.

Lets forget this crap. Everyone who would have heard this would have felt sorry for Sohaib as we know he didn´t mean it. I guess Pakistan team and people had associated this with Ramzan as well as they had also won the world cup around this time.Anyone who prays and sacrifices wishes for return and here all the world is doing prayer. So I guess we wanted to say something related to that but messed up because of his poor English. I feel nothing but sorry for him as I couldn´t see any mischief on his part nor can I imagine this from Pakistan players. I am sure because religion is such an integral part of their life that say would say something related to it but we should understand their perspective. I guess Indians can better understand this than others who would have listened.....

As a Pakistani supporter, first I offer deep respect and congrats to a great Team India. What a great game of cricket!

If you know anything about Malik, you know that he is not a political or religious figure. We had one of those as a captain, Mr. Imran Khan the politician and Inzy the religious fanatic. I am very happy that Team Pakistan is not religious per se, just cricketers. That being said, I think he was trying to offer disappointment at not winning the match for billions of Muslims observing Ramadan. He was foolish. I as a Muslim was so happy that if not Pakistan then India won. He is learning, cut him some slack. And yes, no excuses, Pakistan is also learning to be a secular nation.

1.1 Billion people. 24 Years of dreams (From 1983 to 2007). No of overs may be the difference. But,spirit remains the same. Congratulations India. Well play Pakistan.

"First of all I want to say something over here. I want to thank you back home Pakistan and where the Muslim lives all over the world."

Remove the phrase 'wherever muslim lives' and replace it with the word 'people' or 'pakistanis' and the statement makes perfect sence.

I am for giving him the benefit of the doubt. That said, I am glad someone brought it up. But I think enough has been said. Let it rest!

This is the month of Ramadaan, and the pakistani team came so close to a historic world cup! What Shoaib said, should be taken in the right context.

I must say that what impressed me almost as much as the match was the amazingly cordial relations between the two competing teams. Shoaib went out of his way to congratulate the Indian team and its fans. Afridi referring to "Bhaji bhai" and what not, what an amazing amount of respect they each showed the other? What a welcome world we live in, it was just a game and nothing more and nothing less. To those who have been watching cricket for over 20 years, you must be just as astonished as me at the friendship that exists between the two sides. It's a harbinger of good things, for certain.

Mr. Whoever who wrote this article,
You need to understand the tense atmosphere that Malik was in and million things that were going over his head. He is a great guy and one can see that in his manner of playing and the reason why he was choosen as the captain of the team.
Let me give you an idea... why don't you try to stand in his feet and then try to be interviewed. You will have slips of words as well which is okay, because we are all humans right? Now you need to think more about Cricket that was played and less about what the individual sportsman had to mention. Its upsetting for me to see you being a write on Cricinfo analyzing things in a very unprofessional manners.
Mr. Malik was just thanking all the supporters and trust me he isn't against people of different religions.

Listen - I am not trying to come in defense of Shoaib Malik to what he said. I am thinking it is more to do with his lack of English speaking skills. If he were to have responded to Shastri in Urudu, I doubt he would have said the same thing. Atleast, he was clearly in loss of words after the narrow defeat and that too to India in a WC Final. I really wished he had taken a moment to give the Indian team it's due credid !!

I tend to believe this is a slip of tongue. I once saw an interview Shoaib gave on some Dubai based TV station soom after he was appointed captain. The interviewer asked him several times about the controversy surrounding the Pakistani team then about public prayers and the religious aspects in the team under Inzamam. Shoaib refused to talk about it saying time and again that he did not wish to discuss religious issues. So, I would give him the benefit of the doubt and attribute his utterances to nervousness and disappointment.

His comment was inappropriate if taken literally but I believe he didn't mean it that way.

It was a good article till I got to the comment part. The author then embarks on a witch hunt!!!

Give the guy a break. Malik does not speak English well and the benefit of the doubt should go to him.

SHOAIB MALIK did make a mistake! however it was unintentional.... he should be allowed to speak in urdu and have a translator in order to avoid confusion in the future.
he meant no harm...he is a humble guy so there is no need to make this a big issue!
SUBJECT CLOSED!

Great article.Good observation Mr.Kesavan.Both of us are Indians.I am a Hindu and my friend a Muslim.We supported India throughout the match.Shoaib Malik's comments at the end of the match were in bad taste.Being captain of a national team you don't expect such comments based on religion.All of us praise Irfan Pathan,Zaheer Khan,Shoaib Akhtar for their cricketing skills and not because their religious affiliation to Islam.Sportsmen are meant to raise above religion,race,caste and creed and entertain people with their sporting abilities.

i dont understand that ppl without hearing the whole thing come up with stupid comments, what he sais was back home pakistan and muslims all around the world and he meant the he is sorry to all of them who prayed for his team and then he said "I PROMISE WE TRIED OUR BEST" before posting something please check your facts whoever u r i swear to god because of ppl like u things like these are blown out of proportion.

Nice column from Mukul. I did see Shoaib making this comment while watching the highlights. Though it definitely sounded bad, but maybe all he was trying to say was- first up, I'd like to thank all Pakistanis and our Muslim brethren across the world who support us.

It does not sound so bad now, does it? In fact, had he said it in his native Urdu/ Punjabi / Hindi, it might even have come across as endearing.

Different people have different deficiencies. How about Dhoni not even complimenting the wonderful performance of Pakistan with the ball, until he was goaded by Shastri. I wouldn't call him a gracious winner.

All in all, it was a cracker of a match with some fine performances from both the Indian and Pakistani camps.

The last thing I'd like to remind everyone is- cricket is a team sport, and more often than not, its the overall team's performance that wins them matches. One Misbah Ul Haq's gutsy and sterling performance with the bat does not a summer make(?). Aplogies about the twisted metaphor!

I hope people do not rip apart Misbah for the loss- all it takes is one unlucky ball to end a brilliant batsman's innings. Do some Indians still remember some of Tendulkar's glittering vintage innings in vain, just because he ran out of support at the other end? Misbah might just be a Tendulkar in the making, so let's appreciate him for what he did, not for what could have been.

HEY HEY HEY , STOP it yaall. Mr. Mukul I really think you dont have anything to do but to being so negative and idiotic. WHy dont you understand the guy (like me) cant speak Engish very much so why dont you cut him some slack. IS it really important that you pin point every thing. Now i understand Malik didnt speak for every Muslim in the world especially indian muslims, but i really dont think he really meant what he said and what your negative brain thought so knck it off and find some real job. Cuz i really think it was an honest mistake nothing else.

I am not exactly sure why is malik's statment even looked at in this way. Do you know what these guys say up there is not script? Sometime you just say things that sound right at the moment, not because you think you will judged on every word. Give the a guy a break.

Dear Mukul,

I too was stunned to hear Malik spew something so nonsensical, but I think one has got to give him the benefit of doubt. It is pretty obvious that ‘speaking good english’ is not Malik’s forte’ and his mind must have been numb from the defeat just moments ago. It also goes without saying that he needs no education on the diverse nature of Muslims around the world and their individual loyalties. Let’s not make a "mountain out of a mole" please!!! Let’s restrict our emotions to enjoying India’s success.

Regards

Arun
.

I thought the same for a second but I don't think that's the case. You have to keep in mind that someone who is NOT good at english finds it very hard to convey his message and that too in front of such a huge crowd and cameras. Knowing Malik personally, I dont think he will ever make such a stupid comment. I am sure you are looking to get some fame and you still have to earn a living but please keep in mind that you are almost doing the same.

I wouldnt give Shoaib Malik the benefit of doubt on this one. His comment was in very poor taste. I was almost hoping Irfan to say "Dude I am a Muslim and dont thank me 'coz I was not supporting you."

LEAVE SHAH RUKH ALONE!!! I LOVE HIM

Fantastic article. Its not every day that one latches on something special akin to this,Kudos Mukul Kesavan. It was pathethic for shoib Malik to lace religious overtones in his utterings after the match.Much better expected from an international captain of his standing. However high Joginder sharma might have gone in people's estimates due to his exploits against australia in the semi and pakistan i think luck a played huge in this. Ofcourse we cant but rejoice over the huge potential shown by the likes of Rohit Sharma, Robin Uthappa and company. Yuvraj has shown the world what stuff he is made of. For sure there will be tussle between Yuvraj and Dhoni over captaincy and the competition could prove robust for indian cricket. Signs for the same is already out in the open. Comebackmen Harbhajan and Irfan made it moments to cherish and rejoice over. Sehgwag could justificially feel he has done his chances no harm. One needs though to spare a thought for the sensational trio of indian cricket sachin/sourav and dravid However hard they tried they couldnt lay their hands on a world cup trophy which the likes of Rohit sharma and yusuf pathan can boast off. What a proud moment its for parents of Yusuf and Irfan..getting one son to play for india is a pet dream of most parents and having two lurks on fantasy. Keep it up India...we are proud of you....

Hopefully Shoaib will clarify what exactly he meant. I am surprised that someone as educated as Mukul is targeting a guy who can barely say sentence of English properly. Malik could have meant a host of things. According to you he deliberately singled out Muslim supporters and thanked them. Yet at the same time you say he is a great captain. So why would he say such a thing? Easy answer : ENGLISH CONFUSION. Please keep in mind Ramadan is going on and the team was wished a lot at masjids by muslims of all faiths. Next time I hope he speaks in urdu so that you MUKUL can clearly understand him.

After reading the article and the comments, I think it in the best interest of the game, the Pak captain should correct his statment and clear everyone's doubts. However, ICC should take care that the comments and opinions of the players should not mention or aim at any Religion, Race, Sex or Political interest.

Well Mr shoaib,My wife asked me about the statement you said .I told her that may be you're not comfortable expressing in english.
If you're not comfortable in expressing your opinions ,You can talk in Urdu or hindi but don't give false statements in english

I had posted the following comment in Kamran Abbasi's blog . From the other comments posted in Mr Abbasi's blog's I discovered that Mukul Keshavan has already put forth a similar point of view , albeit , harsher.

Both teams played well and India was deserving winners of the world cup. They won against Australia , England & South Africa and tied against Pakistan (I know the records show that India won , but really , it was a tie).Pakistan played brilliantly as well and Misbah-ul-Haq appears to be a player who has come to stay. The bane of the India & Pakistan sides , fielding , was conquered . Both teams fielded exceptionally well.
MALIK LED HIS SIDE FROM THE FRONT , BUT WHY WAS HE THANKING THE MUSLIMS AROUND THE WORLD!!!!! WHAT SORT OF COMMENT IS THAT!!!! MANY NON-MUSLIMS SUPPORT PAKISTAN AND DON'T THANK ME PLEASE BECAUSE NUMEROUS MUSLIMS LIKE ME SUPPORT INDIA.I AM SURE IRFAN PATHAN , YUSUF PATHAN , ZAHEER KHAN , MUNAF PATEL AND KAIF DO NOT SUPPORT PAKISTAN AS WELL .I KNOW HE WAS NOT SELECTED BUT WHAT ABOUT DANISH KANERIA .AND GEOFF LAWSON. PAKISTAN HAS PROVED ONCE AGIAN THAT THEY ARE THE MASTERS OF THE "FOOT IN MOUTH" DISEASE. THANK GOD DHONI DID NOT THANK ALL THE HINDUS AROUND THE WORLD.
I KNOW MALIK MADE THIS COMMENT WITH A GOOD HEART AND ALL INNOCENCE BUT IT HAS A POTENTIAL TO BE MISUNDERSTOOD. MANY OF OUR FELLOW NON-MUSLIM HUMAN BEINGS WILL DISLIKE A COMMENT LIKE THAT.

though what he said was politically incorrect..i dont think that he meant it the way you are interpreting it, Mukul..Shoaib is a nice guy..he deserves to be let off the hook this time..he should be very careful about choosing his words in the future though..my sympathies with Shoaib Malik..Well played, well tried.

Just imagine Aussies playing Pakistan and Ponting thanks christains all over the world...

Or England playing Windies and the English captain thanks white people all over the world!

Do you think they will have their jobs the nex day?

It may be just Shoaib's discomfort in English that showed up there but, even given the benefit of the doubt, he should still apologize for hurting the sentiments of all non-Muslim supporters of Pakistan and all Muslim supporters of other teams. AND next time, please keep religion out of cricket matters.

He's just a boy...........

He's just a boy...........

Hi Guys!

Chill out! Basically Shoaib was pointing towards the South African Muslims who had come out in large numbers to support Pakistan. He mistakenly mentioned the Muslims of the whole world.

But if this was not a mistake and was intentional, then he should be reprimanded for it and taken to task.

Dont care what Malik said. I just wanted that India has Won the cup in a Thrilling situation..thats it.. I will never ever forget this moment.. Imagine the happiness of 1Billion people in india and supporters all over the world... Go India...

at first sight Shoaib's comments seem insensitive, but I do think he needs a break. if we take too seriously the young man's one comment, in the heat of the moment, in front of the tv cameras etc, we do a disservice to him, to his team, and most of all to the cricket we all love equally.

initially even i was surprised to hear wot shoeb said but then we laughed it off as a slip of tongue or lack of command on the language.but mr.kesavan i was SHOCKED to see the reactions your article generated.i thnk u have done more damage than shoeb himself.I would have agreed with u completely if the comment shoeb made would have come from an experienced player.but shoeb definetely deserves benefit of doubt.Arent we spoiling the celebration of the great match we just witnessed?

Hey,
I might have sounded a bit mean in the last comment I send you, but realize that you are over analyzing a guy's comment in a negative way. Thanks for your understanding.

I am not surprised at all. For some people everything is related to religion and that's why we have this divided world.

Very well written article. I was shocked when I heard the comments from Malik. Its interesting to see that most other Pakistanis and Muslims in this forum also agree for the most part with Mukul. It was a very incorrect statement to make at such a global stage and I know many Muslims in India would have felt insulted.

Overall, a great game - one that will be remembered for years to come. Dhoni certainly has surprised everyone, but I don't think its time for him to take on the mantle of a test captain as well. The pressures of being an Indian captain will start telling as soon as we have a couple of poor series.

I want to thank you back home Pakistan and where the Muslim lives all over the world.

So, these were his comments. There is nothing wrong in it. Do not be such narrow minded. After all we Indians are not narrow minded, or are we?

Dhoni has taken his challenges seriously and chosen risks to be a part of his game. but his risks were well counted and finally I ndia has become the world champions. So sorry Pakistan. Better Luck next time.

Why you ppl are so concerned about malik comments his english is not good and he is simply trying to thanks his nation and ppl who pray for pakistani team as this is our holly month of ramzan this is bad to highlight such issues . We never hightlight a issue when a Hindu Dr in caribean make the wrong report of Bob but i think indian try there best to make a issue of such things

Look at the kind of response an article like this can get...I would have thought the statement was inappropriate too but if you think about it, it looks like another work of "lost in translation"...probably what he ment was their supporters prayers. He is a young bloke although you see their photos and comments about them in papers and magazines their direct exposure to interviews is very limited...most of these guys have their most nervous moments on a ground when they are on stage to collect their man-of-the-match award etc....Anyways don't let this small mistake steal the truth of the moment "Inida is the first ICC world Twenty20 Champion"...Chak De India!!!

Guys n gals, these series of blogs is another definitive confirmation that we ALL LUVV a bit of juicy GOSS and pointos (pointing figures).
What % of this is about CRICKET and its heroes whom we should be praising and complimenting?

FORGIVE n FORGET those lesser mortals and I am sure we will all be GROWN UP and better off.

Let he who HASN'T SINNED continue to throw stones.

The writer has very easily turned this into a political statement and made it sound like Shoaib was being rude or something.
Firstly, I mus say it has hurt me that the writer even thought about something like this at such a good time cricket wise. I am a Pakistani and sad at the loss but this was great for the game.
Secondly, if he had done a little research then he would have known that Shoaib said this only because of the month of Ramadan. Because people specifically muslims were praying for the team in the HOLY month of RAMADAN, hence, he thanked them.
But the write very easily has turned this into a controversy. Shame, that he did not find anything good to write about the great event.

My first reaction when I heard Shoaib speak during the presentation ceremony was the same as Mukul's. But after some thought I'm pretty sure it was a case of poor english-speaking skills (speaking good english does not make cricketers better players in any way-they should speak in the language they are comfortable with). Perhaps Mukul jumped the gun a little bit here! Mukul it would be interesting to know if you have changed your opinion now.

Guys.... Please dont make big issue here, mukul i know u r right on your side but just leave him alone .... At 25 years of age and first time in International Cricket.... its easy to say about players that he should do this or not....anyways guys I am happy for india that we made it to moon this time... its feel greate.... but other side feels sorry for Pakis; only one poor shot by misbah destroyed the hope.

Leave Malik alone .... give him some time then he will give a good speech...As we know he made mistake then why we creating another mistake here with this conflicts...

CHAK DE INDIA...

You should also revolt agains the comment Adam Gilchrist made after India defeated Austaralia. He said - " There were some moments when India was better than us". What an arrogance - they need to be put to rest by cricket fans too that Australia was comprehesively beaten by India. He does not want to acknowledge that. I do know Australia is a good outfit but they have to lear to give credits where it is due.

You should also revolt agains the comment Adam Gilchrist made after India defeated Austaralia. He said - " There were some moments when India was better than us". What an arrogance - they need to be put to rest by cricket fans too that Australia was comprehesively beaten by India. He does not want to acknowledge that. I do know Australia is a good outfit but they have to learn to give credits where it is due.

A writer of fiction aptly twisting words to make an issue of nothing, glad you specialize in the foreign language you are taxing a non-specialist for. Thats why u are behind your word processor and Malik on the field ...

Mr. Mukul Don't spoil the fun we had watching both India nd Pakistan play. Like one of the readers said above, give the benefit of doubt. Besides, you DID NOT quote Shoaib word-for-word. He said "muslim leagues" not "muslims lives". They must have sent him good wishes for the final.
It is irresponsible bloggers and journalists that make the world a tougher place to live in.

By the way, I am an Indian and a hindu.

In the UK we have terrible problems understanding Indians in their call centres - they were the butt of many jokes a while back, but now its a fact of life. They often say the wrong thing - but any rational person in UK knows they do not mean ill by their comments - its not their first language and it happens. As an Indian, surely you can appreciate this of Malik MK? Shoaib is a decent guy, with no hidden agenda, imagine the other Shoaib had said this!!! Wake up and smell the roses - lets talk cricket.

India beat Pakistan, amazing final. Two fantastic young teams, great hosts in SA, great organisation by ICC, wonderful tournament and deserving winners. Slip of the proverbial by Malik, but then what did Dhoni say of his gracious opponents? Would you like to castigate him?

Yes its Ramadhan, come on, its a time for peace, which you would fully appreciate (Indian Indian's do, UK Indian's not so, sadly). Its not 1947 anymore, and we really need to move on.

Mr. Mukul, I strongly agree with you.

Hi first thing i would like to congratulate both teams on giving us the opportunity to witness one of the best finals in cricket. I also want to congratulate both teams on beating the arrogant aussies they deserved it i was glad when both did congrats to the sub continent on that. Speaking about religion i think religion and sport should not be put together.let religion be in places of worship,parliment houses in some countries.But please do not involve religion on the sporting arena cause it creates a lot of contreversies. Enough said well played both teams and congrats for kicking the kangaroos out and making the final an interesting one

i watched this game with 15-17 of my friends out of which 3 were Muslims and we were all rooting for India and were going crazy about the indian victory. And all of us were equally happy at Indian victory irrespective of our religion or race. And in the same way i feel every Indian Muslims supports and cheers for India and its never in doubt.
As for Shoaib i feel he wanted to thank all the Pakistanis over the world and must have erred because of his poor english and the circumstances then...so just give him benefit of doubt.

Given the topic, the rivalry, and the sensitivities that can arise from a continuing blog on this subject, what struck me the most is the civil nature of the posts. Thank you everybody. I am sure Shoiab meant no disrespct to anyone and was simply transliterating. Similarly I am sure that no one was particularly offended anywhere, although the comment as expressed must have raised eyebrows and caused natural uneasiness for those not used to faith based expressions as an integral part of their language. No one in a secular country need feel that they have to explain or clarify Shoaibs comments. And no one in a single-religion country should feel compelled to explain their faith based expressions either. Best it be debated fully and then let-go That is the best outcome.

'Mother of all Matches'

Loosely speaking this is an offensive term in Islamic terms, if you choose to look at the history on the origin of this phraseology.

Saddam used the phrase 'Mother of all Battles' - but you know I don't think I will start a campaign to ostracise you Mr Kesavan - clearly you are just plain ignorant.

Maybe a little more tolerance & understanding in future. Its a pity as your article had been excellent till then, but rather like Misbah's mis-scoop at the end - its what your writing will be remembered by, and that is a pity.

20/20 aside (and what an aside!) there are huge issues in cricket at the moment - why oh why are you trying to make another one?

Its quite apparent that most of you are really not true cricket fans- ""if you can""you figure out for yourself what I really wanted to write about you Malik Bashers. Shame on you.

i enjoyed watching the game very much and found it to be a really really close game... i even thought that pakistan played pretty well and attempted to win... but the comments at the end just ruined the whole game for me, what does being muslim have any thing to do with cricket??? or thanking just muslims people because i am sure that there would be lots of non muslim supporters as well for them.... i think its a shame it happened.

I am a Pakistani and thoroughly enjoyed the match. I wanted to see "Scenes from the Final" and instead I saw this horrible article in its place...I am sure Shoaib Malik did not mean what the author has suggusted.

Fundamental q #1: Why do people hate each other?! Live and let live in peace. Each has his faith and his path to heaven/God/afterlife or whatever!

Point #2: Shoaib is not comfortable with English, so I say give him the Benefit Of Doubt; and if he said what he said intentionally then he is making unnecessary, untrue and stupid statements which make him and his team look bad.

Overall, I like the article Mukul!

And I love the fact that Indians (me being one too) always root FOR Pakistan when they are against other teams. We don't hate on you so why don't you guys just return the favor!

~SlowMo

I was also surprised to hear what he said. After such an awesome game, he decided to ruin it all by talking about the muslims etc. Another I noticed was, he mentioned something along the lines of "we put in a 100%". To me this seems like he is justifying his loss, when in truth it was anyones game till misbah got out. The pakistani coach and staff definatly need to sit him down and tell him not say such stupid stuff or atleast give him some basic tips about talking during awards ceremonies.

Your controversial comments are egregious --- really! More offensive than what you think Malik has said out there in the middle. You are making these controversial comments after being aware of the bad-communication skills of paki captain… while he was just trying to thank the Pakistani watchers back in his home town. It’s really not necessary to write if you are out of topic… think before you blog!

Being a Sri Lankan with "Little Brother Syndrome" (against India), I whole-heartedly supported Pakistan in the final.

I felt lousy seeing Pakistan coming second but my sorrow short lived as I heard the comment of Shoaib. Now I believe that was the best outcome or otherwise it would have been a victory for all Muslims live all over the world and not the team I supported as the representative of Pakistan Cricket

Arent we like making such a big issue out of nothing. Shoaib might not have said the most intelligent thing, but as far as I can remember he just said "I would like to thank all the muslims of the world". Now is there anything wrong in saying that. Ideally he should have thanked all Pakistan fans of any religion that they may follow. He made a mistake, and we the upholders of righteousness are putting him up on a stake, come on guys, savour the victory instead!

Mukul, you seem to have an unerring instinct for seizing and belaboring the most insignificant of trivialities. Some might ascribe this trait to a quest for good, clean fun, but I submit that such views, when aired in a public forum such as this, can only foster division and invite prejudice. While I do not presume to understand the sentiment behind the obiter dicta, I would, in view of the obvious difficulty he experienced in stating his views in English, choose to give him the benefit of the doubt. Why? He has spoken publicly in the past (he won a number of citations for excellence on the field during our various tours of Pakistan over the past couple of years), and he never once aired islamic views of even a moderately rabid strain. On the contrary, Shoaib Malik has always struck me as a keen and talented cricketer, preoccupied solely with improving his trade.

Mate, seems like this one backfired and the jokes on you now. I am not sure if you will even post this but you bringing up this issue shows that you are bitter about the past rivalry, something that should have been put aside after an excellent display of cricket. Why dont you celebrate Indias victory instead of rubbing salt into the wounds of Pakistani's by critising their religion and their team (And yes your line stating "your country's cricket eleven bats for international Islam." is almost offensive to muslims ). I admit at first I thought that the comment was a bit out of line but I'd like to see you speak Mukul after you've lost a World Cup final by 5 runs against your arch rivals with millions watching back home. Cut Malik some slack and dont try to show your anti- Pakistan sentiment on a Cricket website

Leave him alone.Let him have fun and enjoy his game.

What's in your mind/ heart is what comes out of your tongue especially at tense circumstances such as the presentation awards.

Here, cricket is the religion. Everything else takes second place.

That it is.

Mukul, I would have loved if you explained why a statement such as made by Malik will be offensive to a proud Indian. Let me try my bit. The statement by Malik questions the very identity of an Indian. It is difficult to define what does an Indian identify himself or herself with because India is a vast country with different language, culture and religion. Most Indian love there country for this unique blend of languages, culture and religion. They are proud that they can not only co-exist peacefully with each other but also enjoy each other's success (I know this is not always how it is but this is what a proud Indian likes to think). When you question our ability to co-exist with each other or ability to share each others success and failures you question the very identity of an Indian and hence it is offensive.

Furthermore, as we all know, India and Pakistan were divided on the basis of answer to the question - whether Hindus and Muslims live together? I do not know what is the "correct" answer but what I know is that this, my friends, makes it much more offensive and arrogant coming from a Pakistani. It is as offensive as a Pakistani can get to an Indian.

I understand that Pakistani's are as patriotic as citizens of any other country. And they must also have some idea of Pakistani identity. If we can understand each other and respect each other's feeling we will give the next generation much better world then we live in.

I guess (and hope) Shoaib Malik was just ignorant or just plainly said something he didn't intend to say. However, it is important we as citizens of two countries discuss more about these uncomfortable issues (as oppose to what has been suggested by some people here). Just as a check, how many Indians know that a proud Pakistani will find it offensive if you suggest that India and Pakistan become one country.

Give me and all the cricket lovers all over the world a very big break Mr.Kesavan. I am an Indian and very ecstatic about India winning the finals. But you took away half of that pleasure by writing such an article. I live in US and sometimes people misinterpret and misunderstand what I say as I can not lay across what I really want to say as English is my third language. So, let's move on and cut some slack for the poor guy.

It was interesting reading all these comments...Few things worth noting:
1. Mukul's comment about "LOSER"...You are educated, qualified, have never represented India, or any other nation. So, use your words sensibly. If Shoaib is a loser, I'm not sure what I should call myself, or you.
2. Mukul's second comment, about two sons of Irfan's father in blue. I am proud of that.
3. Shakeel's comment----> You're spot on. Shoaib, like many other youngsters, has "usurped" that representation. I am glad "Muslims" like you have the guts to come out and say what you feel. Otherwise, these people will take over your identity.
4. I did not see the ceremony, but, if Dhoni did not congratulate the opposite team, it shows where he fell short.
5. That sad state, where a captain, has to use "religion" to avoid facing criticism at home, or in his fan base for losing to India, because, that's what I think it's all about...
6. Us cricket fans (not me, I have never burnt down anyone's house, but, some idiots have), for not understanding that the person playing is a human being, and, in a game, some win, some lose.
If they feel they are "failproof" how come they (irate fans) don't play for Pakistan?
7. As a Hindu, I know what Inzamam's opening statement was...Sab se pahle Allahtaala ka lakh lakh shukra...I never felt bad...That's a guy who scored 10000 runs...Religious...Good to be religious...But not stupid, like Shoaib...And I agree with Shakeel, because Shoaib knew what he was doing...

An awesome match! Spoilt by one really careless statement from the losing captain. I watched the match with a mixture of Indians, Pakistanis and other nationality friends. People from neutral countries(most who were non-muslims) were really let down by his statement and will think twice before rooting for them at the next screening...Bad english is really not an excuse, on the world stage you need to make correct statements because there are so many cultures watching you. Insist on speaking Hindi if your uncomfortable or take some language/PR classes.

Mukul, do not be surprised if you are held responsible for the next war between the two countries. :) BTW, leave Malik alone. He seems to be a very decent & humble person. He may not have meant to say what he said. Really likable lad and leads from the front and needless to say he was Bob woolmer's fav. character in the team.

Anyways congratulations to India and commiserate to Pakistan and Misbah, poor guy !

It's a shocker of a statement. But, nothing, when compared with the Dean Jones incident. Poor Shoib. I dont think he really meant what he said.Given his fluency in English and the fact that the presentation was right after a nerve wracking final, he can be given the benefit of the doubt. He must have meant to thank the Pakistanis around the world. However, he can learn from his mistake and be more careful next time around.

Being a true Indian fan...after hearing what he said I really dont think I was offended to what he said....I'm very well accquainted with him & his family back in Pakistan & I know for the fact that he did not intend to offend anyone.
Jai Hind!!

All,
I think it was a mistake because of his poor English , but at the same time he should be notified and he should make sure that he doesn't repeat that. Lets forgive him and not make a big issue.

I was appauled by the Pakistani captain's choice of words, or perhaps his ignorance. He certainly needs lessons on being progressive and a good role model. I have great respect for the rest of their players for their proffesionalism.

it was indeed a great final and something cricket has been missing for a while. Was really impressed by the way both India and Pakistan played in this tournament, new blood and new captaincy. Shoaib Malik's comments at the presentation was very shocking when he mentionned "muslims" round the world instead of "pakistani fans", i supported pakistan through the competition and was very dissapointed that he did not thank me as am not a muslim. He should in future be more careful with his approach as he might unconsciously trigger something that might end up very badly. Genuine mistake or not under pressure, we will never know. And very well done to India for their.

i was watching the game all the way...watching hindu supporters supporting pakistan in the crowd,muslims supporting Indians,Christians laughin and enjoyin the game...im an Indian Christian and support India,with Pakistan Christian friends who support Pakistan..when i heard malik say that a shiver ran down my spine..it was as if i was there in person and a huge HUSSSSHHHHH!!fell over the crowd...big mistake to say that.some people on this forum...thinking hez young...Dhoni had been given huge responsibility.Dhoni has only played 80 odd ODI's and 20 Tests whereas Malik has played over 140 ODI's..his maturity levels should be twice as much as Dhoni's. He knew what he was saying....

Congratulations India (Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, Hindu's, Buddhists...all inclusive)! Commiserations Pakistan Excellent opponents, spirited effort...But alas a few wanton words in an ill-thought out speech that has no place in international sport from Malik appear to have soured an extrodinary spectacle. Malik should be ashamed on two counts 1. His misguided and wholly inappropraite comments and 2. his abject failure to congratulate a victorious India. Thank goodness that Afridi made good where Malik failed so miserably! Shame on you! Hope to see both teams in the next final!

Poor Malik. He was in great shock and did,nt realise what he was saying. I support Pakistan whenever they play gainst other teams. I was so thrilled when they defeated the Aussies in the Super 8 stage.

I was thinking the same way as Mukul said and i was happy that Irfan git the MOM award and Sharukh was cheering which project the secular nature of India.I was happy that Shahid Affridi also made a political statement of composure thanking India too and addressing Ravi Shasthri as "Ravi bhai".I have almost broken down...I love those moments when Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis consider themselves as brothers and stop spending on arms and use the money to educate kids(not in Madrassas or temples) and alleviate poverty...Hopefully we will get more Affridis than Maliks in the future

You people are such boy scout why taking this to heart. Shoaib said exactly the same thing he should have to say at that level, because u people dont know what were the feelngs of Pakistani people at the moment after struggling hard and then lost match, by saying these world Shoaib do a better thing because he was the ambassader of pakistan there not of the whole world.

We could give the benefit of doubt to Malik because of his lack of facility in the English language, but it was the sentiment behind that statement that caught some of us by surprise. It was a poorly thought-out line, made poorer by his choice of words that Mukul quoted in verbatim. Should it come as surprise that the Pakistani team has become more pious over the years, thanks to Saeed Anwar and Saqlain's persistence? After all was said and done, there was no hue and cry over Inzy's wont to begin his responses to the Match MC with "Bismillah....." How will we react if Dhoni were to begin his press conference by reciting the Gayatri Mantra? Or Ponting by quoting a passage from the New Testament? Religion does not really play a role in sport and we as an adoring public don't mind the crossing of one's self or looking up to the skies with closed eyee, gestures that are public displays but are also personal at the same time. In that sense, Malik's verbal statement which was a bolt from the blue, merited a response. I could not not react to it immediately, as soon as Shoab uttered those words that in turn became open to various interpretations.....

Mukul your line stating "your country's cricket eleven bats for international Islam" is as offensive as Shoaib's comment. Try not to include your anti- Pakitsan sentiments in this blog.
Secondly, I have read many times in the comments that India have more muslims than Pakistan, that is not true. people do some research before you post anything.
Zarrar, NY

I don't think Shoib Mallick was trying make any political statement at all. It was statement made out of lack of command over the language coupled with the cultural background he comes from. It's very usual for person who comes from Pakistan to mix Allah, Khuda, Islam, Moslem very frequently in their language. I think everybody should take this in right spirit and not make it political. Shoib Mallik is an awesome cricketer and let's not be so intolerant for a slip of language. By the way I am from India.

Give the guy a break dudes. you guys seem to be relishing more on the opportunity to lash out at shoaib, than enjoy a hard earned win.
As rameez raja correctly pointed out, the rivaly between the current teams is very healthy and there is no animosity or hatred that existed in the miandad era. shaoib said what he said,whether he meant or or not.. who cares. people who believe in freedom of speech and expression shouldnt complain, and people who do not have no right to criticize his comments and take a higher moral ground.. peace.

Time for Tendulkar/Dravid/Ganguly to immediatly retire from all forms limited over international cricket if the have an ounce of shame left in them. The trio have been playing for India for more than 15 years, besides individual records the best team India could achieve has few traingular series wins and a WC final spot. Greg Chappel was so right, the senior mafia has to be dismantled for the good of Indian cricket.

guys i m an indian and the comments by shoiab were definetely an insult to all of us. if it was a slip of tongue than pls correct it and think before u speak. and for god sake leave ur religion at home. we r more proud to be an indian and than a muslim. long live india and hey we r the champs so congratulations to all indians and all indian supporters

I agree with you sir partially. I don't think we can go to that deep to discuss this sencitive issue. As players are coming to the game very early they don't have more maturity and good basic English. Like others said if you didn't have that much fluency in the language then use the known language there is no shame in that. In any case player(whether its pathen/Malik) should avoid religious things which will spoil the game sprit. Hope ICC will wake up and create some code of conduct and the respective countries will educate they player to represent the country in international stage.

I agree with you sir partially. I don't think we can go to that deep to discuss this sencitive issue. As players are coming to the game very early they don't have more maturity and good basic English. Like others said if you didn't have that much fluency in the language then use the known language there is no shame in that. In any case player(whether its pathen/Malik) should avoid religious things which will spoil the game sprit. Hope ICC will wake up and create some code of conduct and the respective countries will educate they player to represent the country in international stage.

Mukul, I think your column, while eloquent, just looks to stir up controversy. I am Hindu and an Indian supporter for the record. So what if he thanks sll the muslims who supported his team, surely, there were non-Pakistani supporters of the Pakistani team, who overwhelming are Muslims. Why do you automatically assume that his statement suddenly questions the patriotism of Indian Muslims etc. It has nothing to do with it. Quite frankly, it is you who is over-reacting and imputing all sorts of motives. Lets remember its just a sport...its ok for Indian Muslims to support Pakistan TEAM in a match against India..just the same way that the Hindu asian in the UK turns out to support India in a match against England..it doesnt make either group unpatriotic.

What's wrong with you guys. I can understand the sentiment of Shoib on the heat of match. But Mukul, you should think twice and choose your word properly before writing such comments. I wonder what kind of pressure are you in to criticize so harshly (I am sure there are more constructive way to bring this issue). Definitely, the statement of Shoib is shocking. But it is more shocking to make a mess out of it by a reporter. You just prove what you love. Cricket remark or Crooked remark. Looks like reporter plays the cricket more than the batsman with their unthoughtful word. You just spoil a great feeling of having a great match played with great spirit between two great team. You deserve "spoil egg of the series" award.

guys whether hindus or muslims we all are have 2 eyes, 1 nose , 1 mouth and love cricket and shahrukh khan. being an indian obviously i feel elated, but the loss of not seeing shoaib akhtar in action cannot be compensated. shoaib bhai pleaz join bollywood and beat up gabbar singh, god promise everyone will love it

Maybe what Malik meant to say was "I want to thank every Muslim around the world who was praying for us in this holy month of Ramzan". This sounds a little less offensive than what he actually said. Now, replace the words "every muslim" with "everyone" and it sounds even less offensive, almost innocuous. Subsititue any other religious festival for Ramzan (Diwali, Christmas) and it still sounds just as innocuous and is the sort of thing any religious cricketer might say in a similar situation. If this was indeed Malik's intention, he might have thought it redundant to say the words Muslim and Ramzan in the same sentence. This coupled with his obvious discomfort speaking English, might have caused him to omit any reference to Ramzan without realising the consequences. On the other hand, there are reports that Malik is (or at least was) active in the proselytising outfit, the Tableeghi Jamaat. Perhaps, his intention was indeed to make it clear that he was acknowledging only the support of Muslims around the world and no one else. Only Malik can clear that up. Either way, I agree with the others on this board who say that subcontinental cricketers should be allowed to speak in their native tongues, instead of having to grapple with English. That way the full import of what they are saying will be clear, assuming there are competent interpreters. Incidentally, for me, the most embarassing speech by a Pakistani captain remains Imran Khan's self-centred babble after Pakistan's victory in the 1992 world cup, when he didn't even acknowledge his own team. Surely, the language wasn't a problem for the Oxford-educated Khan.

First of all, I respect the writer for sharing his views.

It seems the writer and everyone supporting him seem to be jealous of Shoaib as a captain as he led his team to a brilliant performance. Obviously, a sensible person would understand what he intended to say. We cant judge anyone's intentions ofcourse but we can interpret it in a positive way. From pak captain's accent we can judge that he is not fluent with english, but we can see he is improving with it(which is something positive). Also, when someone write something or say something or any word that comes out of his mouth that describes yourself. So be positive. Pak captain's seem to be positive, which is a good sign not this writer.

Infact what it seems from this article is that the writer wrote the article in peak of emotions. It's just a game, emotional one for fans ofcourse, but i feel we should set aside our emotions.

But we still have to respect an individual's beliefs no matter who is he/she and i still respect the writer for sharing his views. I hope my comment was read with good intentions and so i hope it brought out some good as my intentions were being good!

I am very surprised to see that how can CricInfo's website management allow this article to be posted. This article is senseless and it completely shows the narrow mindedness of the writer, Mukul. Everyone here knows that English is not Shoaib's mother tongue, and sometimes a person is not able to convey the right intended message. All you guys need to take a chill pill and I am sorry to say but this so-called writer, Mukul, has created a big deal out of nothing. Cricinfo needs to take notice of this.

malik received many e-mails,phone calls from around the world praying for his team to win in the holly month of ramadan thats all i dont think he meant anyone to hurt he is young and that is his first international assignment as a captain the writerof this colum stirr everything up

I think you are trying to make a big thing out of nothing. It is most likely a slip of the tongue. I am a Pakistani and know that English is not something which Pakistani players are known to understand well or speak fluently. I don't think you would realize it since English is the medium of education probably all over India and not in Pakistan. So you would usually see Indian players speaking more eloquently then their Pakistani counterparts.I would still give him the benefit of the doubt.

I See some responses, where they are supporting Shoaib's comments!!!... There is no margin for error or for poor English when he is talking to people of 12 Countries.

Leaving behind this petty stuff, India played a wonderful match with lot of character, just reflecting their Captain's. And 100% Cheering to Misbah - what a guy he is, he did something which is almost impossible for Australians, and that too with ease.

And I'm seeing India win 4 matches continuously after a long time. But it is not the old Indian team anymore...

what a great game excellent to see these to countrys fight back after world cup failures, and give malik a break i doubt he meant it like the way you have portrayed it

Leave it to an indian to take something and blow it out of context. (i'm sure they'll do the same with my comment) Its obvious his English is poor and just leave it at that. I'm sure if the Pakistani team has a PR rep will talk to him about making comments like these. Why can't you indians take this win and celebrate, why must you put the Pakistani team (its captain) further into the ground. Fall back and take it easy..

I also felt sad for the comments made by the young Pakisthani captain. Especially after the way they played in this tournement. This is very inconsequential in the bigger picture. And I would n't stretch it to this extent.

I had worked and interacted with few young professionals from Pakisthan living in the western world. Most of them are either from the rich or the powerful sections of the society in Pakisthan. They sound very confident from the outside. But once you get closer, you realise how insecure they all feel, especially in the present political environement. The profile of the young Indians are very different. The majority are from an ambitious middle class family back ground. What I am trying to say is, access to good education and opportunities in life are very limited to the ordinary citizens of Pakisthan.

Cricket is great sport. Its probably the only option for ordianry people of Pakisthan to come up the social ladder. No wonder you see the sheer raw class in their players.

Once again I feel that we should ignore the comments of this young captain of Pakisthan cricket team. I wish them good luck and hope they will come up with more exciting performances in future.

I thought about the same when I heard him saying this statement. He is making himself to look very bad in front of this whole cricket world. Remember I just said whole cricket world which includes everyone around this country with different religions & cultures. I believe cricket makes us to be unite than anything else as this is one of the games which is followed by so many people. I am sure that he mistakenly said this statement and he will recognize it and appologize for it...

MK is making a mountain out of nothing. I saw the presentation and was surprised at Shoaib's statment, but then it is easy to see that Shoaib is not fluent in English and it is very obvious that he is not a some religious 'scholar'/intellectual talking about muslim experience or any such thing. Get a life, you guys...

Muky - you are correct in pointing this out, Hey but I forgive the guy, I'm sure he got his words mixed up in that tense moment. It could happen to anyone, Shoaib is a likable character and I hope he keeps entertaining us with his positive cricket.

Great minds talk about Ideas. Average minds talk about incidents. Small minds talk about people !!!

Never has so much fiction been created out of an inocuous little phrase. Considering how cricket riles up the emotions in the subcontinent and topping that with the fact that his in-laws are there it is highly unlikely that Shoaib would maliciously make such a comment - unless he holds his mother-in-law in the same regard as Botham did his.

I'm sure it wasn't interpreted in a correct form by Malik. Religion shouldn't matter in any sport, Malik wouldn't have thought that his statement would have come up this much. We would surely hear from Malik soon as to what he meant. I'm sure it was not an intended statement to put down another religion, at least one wouldn't do that on a live game show. Language barrier could have been an issue and frustration/tension could have caused it more, surely it isn't easy to have a mutual conversation after loosing a thrilling game. I’m sure all of us would have let out a poor statement in one way or another in our day to day life. Comon people why bother bringing in MUSLIM/HINDU, INDIA/PAKISTAN issues in games??...Cricket must entertain people, not to fight over silly matters here. By all means, I’m neither Muslim / Hindu, I’m a fan of cricket and I love to see a game as a game, not a religious issue.

Stupid comments by malik.. He should regret 4 d comment..It shows lack of maturity at this level.. he is naive and learning but the issue should be taken to ICC..

I would like to give Malik the benefit of doubt. However, the powers that be at the helm of Pakistani cricket need to wean anyone donning national colors away from any religious utterances on the international stage. Religion is something very personal, and most of us would much rather prefer to not wear it on our sleeves. If poor command of the English language is a problem, nobody forced Malik to not speak in Urdu. But I have a suspicion even then he might've uttered something equally irresponsible. He better clarify what exactly he meant very soon or else he is certainly going to lose the support of this fan.

Well written. I thought India was playing against Pakistan, not Muslims!!

The writer of this coloumn couldnt find any fault in the Pakistani team so he decided to blame the pakistani captain for some thing totally irrelevant, some thing that could be forgiven, some thing that even danesh kaneria wouldnt have noticed. Indians and their biases....uhhhh, get a life and stop being a nuisance... Trust me it wont help, seems like u r a desperate writer, trying to get attention by hook or by crook... nice try and seems u have got mine... but in the most pathetic way imagined.. U r a disgrace to the writers community.

Word of relegion is unacceptable in sports.

I must say that being muslim we should have been understand his statment. He was thanking all muslims for their prayers thats it.. Cm'on guys dont make it an issue.

Thanks for being the one to come out and say it, Mukul.

Let me just say that being a die-hard Indian supporter, I have really enjoyed watching Pakistan play in this tournament. In fact, I was supporting Pakistan against every other team but India.

Unfortunately, that comment left a very sour taste in the mouth. It was so disappointing to hear a comment such as that from such a wonderful ambassador for the game and for Pakistan.

If it were a slip of the tongue, I hope he comes out to clarify what he said before it becomes a big issue. For the sake of peace in Pakistani cricket and its development, I think all cricket fans around the world would love for this potential controversy NOT to materialise.

guys, let us not make this as a controversy and enjoy the sweet victory of a dream final ! congrats team india, you have given us something to cherish for years to come... hope the team performs in the same way, not giving up & believing themselves in all situations, in future series...

talking about malik's "slip of toungue", the poor guy may have been worried about the backlashing once they land in pakistan !

Nothing wrong with it, if all Muslims are feeling sad for Pakistan's lose in final, but how Sohaib was so sure about it?

Look at the large number of people commenting on something which was not meant but said in wrong words. It is more shameful that our Indian fellows always try to find something dirty when it comes to Pakistan. You won, your luck, enjoy the victory, why are you trying to spoil your moment of joy.
The writer has not done justice to his profession by bringing up such unpleasant thing which not many noticed until he brought it to writing. I would suggest CricInfo should show some sens of responsibility and avoid printing such stuff which may lead to controversies. I hope it is not a Indian website.

Is the statement offensive ? Yes
Did he mean it ? May be.
Is it surprising that he said it ? Nope. Pakistan over the recent years has a history of mixing religion with politics.
I wish he had n't said it.

after reading all coments i feel people are divided in two group but if you hindu or muslim respect your religion do not make big isuue of it. he should not bring ant religion in game. but always believe forgive and foegett.

hey guys! give him a break! He is just emotional and doesn't know what he is talking! Don't you ever experienced his emotion and spoke nonsense? I think he should be left alone!

That was really sick observation. I was truely happy today that two indian cricketing giants fought each other in a mega event. I being a Pakistani was happy for once that trophy is going to go "home". i was never such depressed as i used to get before. i was even thrilled after the finish. i was happy for Yovraj and RP and Dhoni. This showed us cricket the way we play. ideal. awesome. But your... observation just killed it man. really! ...you picked up one sentance of off Shoaib and bullied him all through. This IS month of Ramadan. Our players played most part of the tournament without drinking one sip of water. Yes, now you would say personal choice but you appreciation of others belief didn't let you think the moment he was in. Ofcourse he was reffering to muslims in general sence. he could have chosen word pakistanis but honestly you know and i know their wasn't any need for him to pick and choose what he should and shouldn't say. People in India must have been praying for Irfan and Co. People like you cause hate among others by bring up such petty points. What did you gain. People yelling and screaming for no good. Cricket won today. Subcontinent won today. But bigots like you lost.

I think this bad English was the culprit and Iam sure, he dint mean what he said.

Don't get me wrong, I am not an ardent fan of Pakistan or his team members, but lest not forget his poor English. He couldn't frame one sentence right yesterday but we are making a monster out of nothing.

Very well put Mukul. I myself was looking at drafting something, but looked at your stuff and said, okay I could not have put it better. What he said was absurbd and ridiculous and there cannot be any doubt about that.

Surprisingly observed that some people have commented that he might have not meant it but came that way. I think thats nonsense. He said exactly what his sentiments were. He might have put it in a nicer way if his command over the language was better, but the point is he would have meant the same.
Inzi, for all his religious start to his speech and all, never would have said something on those lines. Go ahead and thank Allah, but not assume that Pak is fighting for Muslims all over the world.
Malik should come out and apologize for what he said, can lie that he did not mean it, that would be fine and should be done. He has not helped the cause of the Muslims and considering that this is not a football match where at least 5 billion would be watching, I think he is lucky to have goofed up in a smaller forum.
Khuda Hafiz, Jai Hind

I think Shoaib did not mean it. But, a clarification from him will clear everything.

To all those people who say Mukul is making a mountain out of a mole hill .. how many of you actually heard the words first hand and your first thought is .. what the hell is he talking about ? Or may be its just me.

Was a bit taken aback as it was not in the best taste, but I give him the benefit of the doubt here. Big big game, overwhelming occasion, language issues- come on let's not shred the young captain to pieces. 3 cheers to both the teams for the unparalleled entertainment on the pitch.

i went to bed after the prize distribution ceremony but could not sleep till midnight since i was very much disturbed by his comments.now after reading all the responses and your article i feel the matter has been dealt at length from every point and let us drop this topic once for all in the interest of the game.

I am Proud Indian & Proud Muslim & Proud Indian Cricket fan -- I agree with the article , I did hear him say that and i felt awkward - however i was too involved and hyped about India winning the match -- way to go INDIA !! CHAK DE INDIIIIA !!

----- I hope ignorant Shoaib Malik reads all the comments and my message for him is : SPEAK FOR YOUR... SELF - don't imply that all muslims pull for Pakistan ...

What a fantastic contest it was! Both teams bettered their previous bests ever!

What a fantastic bowling effort from Pakistan (especially Gul and Arafat, with their shrewd captain Malik) and what a fantastic all round effort from India (fielding, catching, running BTW, all but few bowlers, captaincy). Misbah ALMOST finished the job for Pakistan. But all marks to Dhoni for never giving in, ever, and to RPS, Irfan, Rohit and that little man Gambhir!! for setting up and defending an impossible target by constantly taking wickets.

It is just unfortunate that Malik made such a comment! But hopefully he will learn from experience to think before saying anything henceforth (also, to think the right things). However, even though it would have been diplomatic to leave it untouched, really, this article did me (and my friends) a great favor by talking about Malik's comment. Malik's unexpected comment left a bitter taste in the mouth at the end, especially after such fantastic gamesmanship in the final and throughout the tournament from the Pakistani team. This article is more Dhoni-like than Dravid-like. For, Diplomacy is about saying what you want to in an “appropriate way” and not about “not saying it at all”. Thanks for “saying” it Mukul, for the benefit of the billions of “Cricket Lovers Around The World”.

"We the people of India constitute unto ourselves a sovereign democratic secular republic"

That's why our 'man of the match' can say 'Mashallah" - that's why our CRAZY young bowler can cross himself before he bowls, that's why we have a captain from Ranchi, batters from Bombay, Coorg, and sikhs ...This is a GAME!! That's all!!! Was a FANTASTIC game today, can we not celebrate what UNITES us????

-- I am proud Indian , Muslim and Huge fan of indian cricket

------- I hope Ignorant Shoaib Malik reads my comments -- my message to him " SPEAK FOR YOUR OWN D*MN SELF - dont' ever question my partiotism or commitment to my BELOVED COUNTRY , India "

what does he know , there are MORE MUSLIMS PRAYING FOR INDIAN TEAM than muslim in the whole world for Pakistan !! do remember mr. Malik

CHAK DE , CHAK DE INDIA !!

I think Amer Ranjha said it best. People (Pakistani Muslim's iam guessing because it happens to be the dominant religeon in Pakistan... i know, shocking isn't it) prayed for him and he thanked them. So what? Y'all need to go and grab a beer or something. (Unless you're muslim;))

It's happened to me before too. I was at Band Camp and it happened to be a Christian camp. They prayed and then one said " father, bless the Christians of this world" I sure as hell didn't take offence. It was a bit awkward as i was the only muslim but it didn't matter to me. Now those guys could speak english pretty damn well.

I was following the final on CricInfo, and was immensely happy about India winning. The moment I saw Shoaib's comments I said to myself, "Wow, what is he thinking? Is he thinking that all the Muslims in India were cheering for Pakistan? Is he thinking that Pakistan has some kind of sole right to represent Muslims in the world?" This is a kind of mentality I have observed in a few Pakistanis I had come across over the years. They act like they are torch-bearer of Islam.
By the way, I am a Muslim and I am not from India.

Hi, I have just logged into cricinfo and read the comments posted by the fans and i totally agree. I had watched the match and i heard Shoaib Malik thanking the muslim fans around the world. Is he trying to say only muslims support Pakistan? There are more muslims in India than in Pakitan and im sure they would support India. Hopefully Shoaib said that accidently and what he ment to say was that he would like to than his fans around the world. Next time i hope religion doesnt get involved in cricket or any sports

Shoaib is out of the world at that moment and I can realize his emotions and he struggles for the words to put.. might be he thinks now what he said...

let CricInfo/media ask malik further on this..lets see if he accepts as mistake or he defends

There are a lot of people who find nothing wrong with what Shoaib Malik said, and want MK to stick to cricket. They are better off telling the same thing to the person they are defending.

Slip of tongue or not, comfort with English or not, its about a mindset of equating cricket teams and their supporters with religion. And this was not one-off as before the match as well he had made reference to Pakistan winning 'coz it was the month od Ramzan. If anyone would/should have benefited from almighty's grace due to it being a sacred month then it ought to have been two individuals who hrew up inside the compund of a mosque and whose father was a muezzin - Irfan and Yousuf Pathan - at least the empirical evidence proves so!

Great Match! Nearly gave me a heart attack, but as usual somebody would have and go and put his foot in his mouth. But Malik and the Pakistanis are anyday better than the aussies, who are the most arrogant bunch of them all.Remember they pushed Sharad Pawar offthe stage and then asked why a big eal was being made out of it!

I have three observations to make. (1) Yes, Dhoni is carefree, gives the impression of wearing the job lightly and seems to regard it, correctly, as nothing more than a game. I think a number of past Indian skippers were the same way too when they were his age and still relatively new. Its the incredible pressure of living upto the exaggerated expectations of one of the most hysterical and insecure bunch of fans and media anywhere in the world that reduces our skippers to the nervous wrecks they become. Let Dhoni enjoy his moment in the sun as a captain - the system will inevitably reduce him to what his predecessors became. (2) Shoaib Malik seems like a decent fellow who hasn't had the "advantage" of a convent school education - that and the fact that he was in front of a microphone beaming out to the entire cricketing world minutes after a nerve-wracking match that his team lost, might have much to do with what he said in his broken English. At least, I think, he was sincere about whom he thanked. If he is under the mistaken impression that Muslims everywhere in the world were behind Pakistan, maybe over time and with greater exposure to the rest of the world, he will know better.(3) I am beginning to suspect that Wisden pays its bloggers by the amount of mail their missives generate. If my suspicion is right, MK7 must be the wealthiest of Wisden's bloggers.

To start it off, I would like to congratulate the Indian Team. They were definately the better team on the day.

Following Mr. Malik's comments...
Poorly reflected, mr.writer. What a dismal piece of article to follow what we all can label as a "MEMORABLE MATCH".

Public Speaking, I believe you would be aware of the effort needed to actually learn this bit of the English Language, let aside the language as a whole. Perhaps, you do not know of the fact that Mr. Malik is actively involved in English Language Training courses, which definately are not the pre-requisites of the Team Captain position.

Captains are chosed on their ability to lead, decision-making, communication skills(between the team), and on their overall cricketing abilities. If you look closely, no country advertises the captain position, for the players with well spoken english. And if you go back in the not too later a past, Mr. Malik was appointed the Pakistan Team Captain after the WorldCup, which would be around April-May(around that time). I'm sure he would be more busy in polishing his leadership abilities than actually concentrating on learning english language.

However, what is disappointing at this stage, is the expectations that the millions and millions of people, as some of us here call it, have from the english speaking abilities of a captain who is first chosen for his cricketing skills, and not for his control over the english language.

My point here is, what Mr. Malik meant was "PAKISTANIS all over the world". It was no doubt a slip of the tongue. He was caught translating his feelings from Urdu to English. But here, you do have to put into consideration the events he had just passed through.

1) 1st Major Tournament as Captain
2) Lost to Arch-Rivals India
3) Lost to Rivals India, that too in a WorldCup Final.
4) Lost by a mere 5 runs.
5) His lack of experience in controlling emotions in such an electrifying atmosphere.

Any sensible person reading these reasons, would surely understand the effects that could have followed. Perhaps, Mr. Mukul here had already had his mind set up. Or perhaps, this could be just another shoot as a RESUME BOOSTER, as one of our friend mentioned earlier.

It is with great displeasure that I state that Mr.Mukul has been completely ignorant of all these circumstances...Sad, very sad indeed.

Once again, congratulations to India. And best of luck to Pakistan for the future.

One more thing which I noticed about the post match interview with ravi shastri of both captains. There is no doubt that both the team played some good cricket in this tournament but Shoiab malik didnt appreciate a single Indian performance of the tournament when Dhoni openly appreciated Umar Gul and Shahid Afridi's bowling performance in the interview.

I also listened to the comments and they were what Mukul mentions and i agree they did sounds offensive specially for indian muslims and the ones i know were 100% behins India, though i think what Shoaib meant was may be Pakistani(like myself) and some Middle eastern Muslims(some may be in UAE and stuff) around the world who were praying for Pakistan during the month of Ramdan.
Either way if Shoaib clarifies his comments that would be great.
All Congrats to India for winning the tournament.
I think this is the best thing that has happened to the sub-continent cricket in quite a long time.
Let's remember this as a great en-counter where the best team won and let's pray for a lot more of them :)

When Shoaib made that comment, I was surprised that Ravi Shastri did not catch on to that and confronted him then and there !!
If this was a slip of tounge then I hope to see an apology from Shoaib in some format !!

Since their existence, most of the Muslims have been loyal to their homeland, be it battlefields or any sports. Cricket is no exception to this, where they play for England, India, Srilanka and Pakistan. They are representing their country and are proud to do so. When Shoaib quoted this, may be he was nervous, may be he was upset, or may be (though highly unlikely) he was unaware about this fact; but the bottomline is that this time he is incorrect.

Shoaib's comment was surely unfortunate, but then he dint mean it. The problem is with English. He wanted to say Pakistani's around the world but came up with something else. I think most of us would have made such a mistake if asked to speak in german after attending a few spoken german classes. Malik is a cricketer unfortunately not a so well educated cricketer, please dont treat him as an extremist. Oh! by the way I am an Indian and non-muslim.
Cheers

Well done india. Now 4 the australian tour whom they will replace for the oldies. let the oldies stay in bench give chance for the young bloods.Keep it up india.

it will be an endless debate where all the pakistanis will think indians are making a big deal out of nothing at all and all the indians will think their reaction is justified. but come to think of it, how many times you guys have spoken in front of the world media and 30,000 crowd? its easier said than done. imran khan at the end of worldcup 1992 only spoke about his cancer hospital... you dont realize what you're saying and its hardly deliberate.

Any kind of sports is above religion or caste or colour. A representative, like Shoaib, inciting such a reaction from people all over the country has obviously done something wrong.
I was shocked to hear that statement and I knew that this statement is going to get censured.
As far his personal sentiments goes, losing a close match, his statement was not religious at all but sentimental.
But I dont think it was a stage or time to show your sentiments when every word of your weighs.
Anyways, All U Indian supporters..Lets bask in the glory of India's momentous victory over all intimidating opponents..
Cheers!!

We must not forget that it is the holy month for the muslims and Shoaib knew that his muslim supporters all over the world would have prayed for the success of his team. So I dont think there is too big an issue if he thanked them for that...

Continued from my previous post ….. On the other hand, it is well and truly acceptable that the whole episode was purely due to the non-fluency in English of the Pakistani team, most of who are new to speaking English, especially on stage! Given that, I think that this article should be looked purely as one that serves to recommend the allowing of players to speak their languages of comfort.

Finally, on Mukuls language itself! It seems no less discreditable / despicable than Malik’s. At least he can be excused for lack of vocabulary and for stage-stutters; but Mukul’s sounds more like a heated retaliation, rather than a friendly/well-thought pointer. So, Mukul, thank you for “saying” it. But please “Practice What You Preach” for saying it the WAY you said it!!

No doubts Dhoni showed his character on and off the field. This match is an memorable one for all the cricket fans from sub-continent. It has been a nail-biting world cup final between the two countries where cricket is a religion. We couldn't have asked for anything better.
It is good that you mentioned about Shoaib's, as this was the only low point in the match.

I think every once in a while Mukul tries to stir up some controversy to try and get some attention for his blog. You have the benefit of analyzing and dissecting Shoaib's comments from the comfort of your desk while he had to form an answer in a split second, in a language he isnt really comfortable with. Please get a life...

Well Mukul, though I liked your style of writing, I was thoroughly disappointed from the way you made an issue out of Milk’s comments.

When someone is interviewed LIVE, one should always expect a slip of tongue or two from the interviewee. And if interviewee is not proficient in English, and his team has just lost the world cup final, and that too with an extremely narrow margin, then there is every reason to give a benefit of doubt to him. But the way you have tried to politicize this issue has really hurt me.

I had been a fan of Indian cricket team (except for its matches against Pakistan) for quite some time. But the way your article has introduced this issue, and other Indians have tried adding fuel to fire, it hasn’t strengthened my impression about India (and its residents).

Your team has won the first 20-20 world cup in history and that too with a convincing performance. Instead of lauding your team’s triumph you rather have opted to set your focus on a dubious comment of Malik just to make Pakistan look bad. If such is the mentality of the people of this region, we can expect bitter ties between the 2 nations for another 60 years.

I am very glad to see the balanced comments made to this post by Hindus, Muslims, Indians and Pakistanis alike. In the past, this forum may well have become a ground for hate and anger. It gives me a lot of hope for the future that we can discuss such issues maturely. Amazing game, best of luck for the future to both teams. What I enjoyed most was that both of us defeated Australia....

Hello to all who support what Shoaib Malik said. Slip of tongue??? BS. That statement was well thought before the Pakistani Captain came to the podium. He interrupted Ravi Shastri & said "before you start I would like to say something here". I have never seen any old Pakistani Team belonging to Akram or Imran Khan bring Cast & Religion in the game...

Mr Kesavan - I daresay that you have singularly achieved in sparking (a pretty useless) debate on which country has the most number of Muslims. Let us give Shoaib the benefit of the doubt. It was his first exporsure at the world stage and hope he learns from this. If it has hurt the sentiments of Non Pakistani muslims around the world including Indian Muslims - I can see why but just let it be. Shoaib seems to be a genuine cricketer and a simple person and maybe this was a slip of tounge. Let us not make political capital out of this.

This was a terrific match between two countries where cricket is (and I hope remains) the true passion and religion.

Look, you've completely misconstrued the whole issue. Shoaib's just started learning english and every time he goes up to speak he can never really express himself properly. He just lets out many words that are related and does not think too critically. There is no doubt of the strong connection between the words pakistan and muslim; he would not have been implying all muslims in the world because there are 1.6 billion with quite different identities. He's not an idiot and he did not conspire to say or imply something like this premeditatively. He simply steriotyped due to a mixture of linguistical and momentary factors; which any of us could have done. Let's not turn him into an evil person; he just simply steriotyped and made a mistake with his choice of words due to his inability to communicate properly. Nothing more and nothing less. All that can be concluded is that he needs some practise in the area of public speaking in english. I also noticed this mistake by Malik at the ceremony but registered it only for what it was; a mistake and one of many in his words. Don't turn this into such a dramatic issue Mr. Kesavan. If we started analysing words in such detail outside of politics this world would become an ever more unfriendly place.

I thought Shoaib wasn't such a type of a person till actually I heard him say it ! It was really uncalled for to mix cricket with religion....

And a word for Indian fans and the media too ..... Don't get too carried away and hype it too much. Lets see everything in the right perspective. India won, good .... Dhoni handled them well, good ! But please dont praise either Dhoni or the team a little too much and then later abuse them wen they lose. Even Dhoni seems to be getting a little bit carried away since the last 3 matches, atleast the way he was responding to questions made you believe so ( Thought he was handling it better in the first few matches ) but the media and public are partly to be blamed for that. So, just a word of caution ... nothing else.

Congratlations to Team India. A deserved victory !

yes i agree with writer. It was a shocker to hear such meaningless words told by the pakistani captain.Being a fan follower of pakistan Im very dejected by such remarks.Shame on you ,shoaib .Its only on field behaviour ,you should also be sensible when you sepak to media.

I must say that when I first heard it I was stunned. What he said was so ridiculous that I'd have expected some commentators to speak up and lambast him for it. Glad to see that you did so Mukul. I hail from Baroda in India - and was thrilled to bits to see 2 Baroda players, both Muslim, both players I'd seen when I used to go watch Ranji games at the IPCL ground, represent India. And to think that the captain of Pakistan's cricket team, no less, utters such rubbish about his team representing all Muslims of the world! India's glorious secular tradition has seen it being represented by people of all religions and it would serve Pakistan well to realise that religion and sport don't mix. Questioning the patriotism of Indian muslims on the podium is the mark of a very immature or fanatically religiously inclined person.

How come a team's captain can make such a comment with emphasize in such a major sport event! Shame on Shoaib Malik. I won't say shame on Pakistani team because I am yet to be sure it was the voice of the Pakistani team (although they have the responsiblity for their skipper saying something like this). How dare he? I am a Muslim and I have been supporting my Bangladesh. After Bangladesh was out in 2ndd round my support was for India and Pakistan because they are my beighbouring country. When it was India-Pakistan encounter I choose India. Now as I am Muslim, does Shoaib thanked me considering I was supporting him? I was not and many other like me was not. How come religion comes here in a sport so dominantly?...

I am an Indian muslim, who is simply infuriated by the comment made by the Pakistani Captain. Me and my family were watching the game with our hearts in our hand, praying for our countrys victory and we just couldnt contain our happiness when India won. And then we have Shoaib Malik making this statement of thanking every muslim for praying for his team!!! How dare he think every muslim was praying for him and his team!!! I guess it is high time he gets some general knowledge on the sentiments of Indian muslim. I was pacified only when Irfan Pathan came up to get his Man of the Match award... I guess atleast then shoaib malik would have understood his blunder!!!

It was shocking to hear a comment like this from the Pak Skipper. He needs to understand that a captain's responsibility includes being an ambassador of his country (not being fluent in english is no excuse for this). He left a very poor impression of the secular maturity of his country. Muslims in India are proud patriotic citizens & don't root for Pakistan!!

common yaar, its a game of cricket, Don,t try to spoil the world society by saying Muslims, Islam, etc publicly.

Poor Shoaib!! He said what he was prompted to say by politically insecure politicians. Pakistan cricket has been patronised by politicians in high places throughout and poor captains have no option. Remember Mushtaque Mohammad in eightys thanking all Muslims for winning the test series against India ? My heart goes out to shoaib for all the bashing he is getting for what he was ordered to say !!

please do not try to make a moutain out of a mole,you do hav2 understand that its not easy to speak especially after losing the match, and commenting first time as a captain.i do not think he was trying to promote his religion, he is only thanking all the people who were fasting and praying for the success of the team, can't he even thank his people when they could do so much for the team. Its easy to sit and give your comments, if you are called on the stage to speak, your tongue will dry and your body will shake and you will thank your parents instead of your organizer, and if somebody says do not thank your parents how would you take that.

Please keep religion out of cricket....why everything starts and ends in religion....
cricket is religion in itself....who needs other...

Please do not let Shoaib's comments spoil the great memories of this ICC 20/20 World Series.
His lack of experience and command of the English
language probably accounted for this unfortunate
glitch. Hats of to both India and Pakistan for their great perfomances.

The fact is that Mukul is a writer and maybe that's what he does for a living. So I should congratulate Mukul for writing such a dramatic piece. Then I thought of the spectacle a witnessed in the form of T20 in the last month and I am really happy to say that I enjoyed every bit of the time and money spent on this tournament ($ 49.99 for the package in Canada). I felt that most of the matches were entertaining and India are the deserved winners. I saw the amazing talents of some wonderful playes in world cricket ( sanath, yuvraj, gul, afridi, vettori, hayden, gayle, aftab, ashraf, ablei, misbah...to name a few) and I am glad that I witnessed the wonderful sport. I feel that India are deserved winners as they played better when it matters. The statement Shoiab made is entirely his decision and he has all the right to express the way he wish. Maybe he didnt mean to say it exactly the same. But it doesnt really matter as he had lead his team wonderfully and was the worthy second best team and NOT "losers". Although it does ignite the INDIAN feeling initially, I feel if you think properly, this aritcle doesnt let you ENJOY the winning moment. Cricinfo shoudnt allow such writers to post their silly views. I am a proud Indian!!!

Mukul, it was a fantastic final and we should be proud that Pakistan and India locked horns to determine the winner.Let us face it the game could have gone either way.Tere is no loser or winner here.I eould say both excelled in the game as some ahve to win others ahev to lose.So be it.Please do not exploit on the remarks made by Shoaib. He has a right to his opinion.I am sure he was not refering to the Muslim world per se. He was directing his comments to the Muslims of Pakistan origin and why not too.For the sake of good Indo-Pakistan relations please let the matter rest.Dhoni and his boys have shown class and I hope the selectors will not sacrifice to accomodate the "have beens" in the coming ODIs as this will be demoralising to the youngsters.

Mukul Kesavan, instead of appreciating the Indian team and writing about them, you find fault with others and make some article. Did somebody ask you to write a negative article, so that people will be forced to beleive all crap, whats going on right now is not enough???

What an important point tracked by this article.
It seems shoaib is following the same path of previous captain.In play all we seek fun, excitement and at the end friendship. But saying such statements divert public mind and attitude.
Hoping he may not make such statement again....

I think you should stop writing blogs. People will stop visiting cricinfo if people like you write blogs. Thank you.

I think he was a gracious loser. He was appreciative of all the great players either from India or Pakistan. I think the guy was lost in translation so lets just leave it at that.

Shoiab has made himself look naive by uttering what he uttered. I was almost startled by his statement. Cricket is played to entertain cricket enthusiaist. It cuts across religion, caste color,race etc. Pakistan is a responsible cricketing nation. Its captain should refrain from saying such words. There are honorable Muslims all over the cricketing fraternity supporting their respective national teams.If anybody glances at the team compositions of various nations one will certainly find excellent Muslim players playing for Non Muslim nations. Shoaib needs to respect these players and show maturity. He has undone all his goodwill by this incident. However, we need to treat this as an one-off aberratin and look forward by being large hearted about it.

Well, to all those who feel it was a slip of the tongue,I am sorry it was not. I believe he wanted to mean every word of what he said. In fact he began his speech with these exact words.As a speaker myself,everyone knows that the opening lines are planned and come from your heart. It was unfortunate to have heard such comments. This problem of religion is sport should be rid off. Thanks Mukul for these words.
Also Shoaib coming under the purview of Geoff Lawson, should understand and realise his fallacy and make amends for it. I am looking out towards a changed Pakistan team in the coming years. The one akin to Imran Khans World Cup winning team. The one that does not point fingers or use religion to gain mileage. And the one that is known more for batting, bowling and fielding in all forms of this game.

I think what he was trying to say was:
"First of all I want to say something over here. I want to thank you back home Pakistan and where the PAKISTANIS lives all over the world.".... but for sure he has a very poor english.... messed up everything...

& Dhoni & other players did congratulate each other....May be the people who didn't saw it were busy shouting & dancing :-)

I m a person who had never liked Pak team, whenever they have any match with any team I always wanted that team to win but this is the first time that apart from India Pakistan match, I was supporting Pakistani team in this whole tournament. When pakistan beated Australia I was so happy and praising them to all my friends and colleagues. So when I heard those words from Mr Malik for a few second I was surprised and didnt like it but soon within second it skipped from my mind as I have heard nothing. ofcourse the comment was not good but a wrong word can come out of anybodies mouth and because of that we cannot side line all the effort done by the whole pakistan team. Like Indian team they come out from no where and reached the final. Above Someone written that he will not support pakistan team anymore but I will definately support them except in India Pakistan match :).
Well now come to the topic actually after reading this article and all the posts, I think we should not take this topic any further, yes it was a mistake done by Malik but highlighting it only make things worse. In the end I like to tell you that we people are neither politicians nor commercial media who pick these kind of comments to make their vote bank or TRP.
And how can I forget to congratulate Indian Team... cheers for India hip hip hurray..

It was a good match. One had to win. Match was turned when imran nazir got run out and then in one over Shoaib Malik and Afridi got out. Misbah Played good but he did not manage in last over and came under pressure. However we shoudl appreciate pakistan team. Younis Khan also did not deserve place in 20/20 team.

Paki players are known to bring religion into sport and though I never heard Shoaib talk I felt he was educated. He did invoke God after the toss and to me thanking Muslims all over the world was intentional aimed at escaping the wrath of the Paki mob on losing to their arch rivals.....this apart I did enjoy the game...at one point I felt they were cruising at 53/2 but ...who else can be so unpredictable but Pakis..Well done Mahi and his bunch of young fighters...I hope we retain this team for the ODI series against Oz.

It was a good match. One had to win. Match was turned when imran nazir got run out and then in one over Shoaib Malik and Afridi got out. Misbah Played good but he did not manage in last over and came under pressure. However we shoudl appreciate pakistan team. Younis Khan also did not deserve place in 20/20 team.

Completely agree with the article.The matches are between nations and not between religions.I feel very strongly about these in appropriate(and irrelevant as it was not part of the question asked by Ravi)comments.We as cricket fans support nations,good cricket and good players and not religions.

Mpeople have attributed Shoaib's comments to his lack of English. I don't think that at such a global forum, there is a place for thoughtless comments. He had himself stopped Ravi Shastri from speaking....saying something like "before I say anything else, I would like to thank the people of pakistan & muslims all over the world...". A statement like this is not acceptabel! Ya sure, it may be a slip of the tongue, but as a captain/sportsperson, you can't make such a mistake!! I agree 100% with the writer of this article. I was quite disgusted when I heard those comments from Shoaib. Hopefully, he gets the message & thinks before he speaks the next time. Also, if language is a limitation, then he can surely respond in Urdu and no one is going to think lesser of him for doing so.

I woke my neighbours yelling NOOOO this morning. Misbah what were you thinking? That shot was a shocker but I can't complain, the rest of your innings/tournament was fantastic.

Thanks India and thanks Pakistan, that was a fabulous game to watch.

It's a shame Mukul, you have to ruin it with your inflammatory and misguided rant.

Malik took me back to Lahore 1978 when Mushtaq Mohammed thanked his Muslim Brothers all over the world for their support in defeating India in the 2nd Test. Time stands still in Pakistan

Well done India and Pakistan to make it to the T20 finals. Congratulations to India on winning it. The entire article gave a balanced input for the thought process of every cricket loving fan. Being a cricketer myself, I know how jubilant the Indians would have felt and how painful it is for the Pakistani team to take such a defeat. We have to take a closer look at the entire situation. It was a post match conference and Malik when he appeared for it was on top of a tin roof. Because a captain has to cop it for the entire team. I can understand the moment when he uttered the words which has created a lot of criticism. For a non-Islamic Pakistani supporter, this would have been very hard to digest. It's a pinch of separation when he/she is going through the mood of their team's loss. But we have to realise that if he had to revisit and make his statements, he wouldn't be making a similar comment. Because only he knows that he has erred on a very sensitive matter. Regardless of any religious background, players play for their country and supporters barrack their team. Though he might have said this in the heat of the moment, cricketers or any person on a global stage should realise...Is religion (path of belief) such a major part in sports (path of spirit)? And I believe sports is a phenomenon where a human being raises above his/her rivals on the basis of skill, endurance and passion. Religion which is created by human beings might have flaws which are different topic of interest. But sports is a soul affair where the gallantry involved is a spiritual affair...Realise it and relish it.

I think Shoaib is a great cricketer and not the most fluent speaker in English. Anyways, that doesnt excuse his remarks at such a big stage with a world audience. Shoaib should realize that with his position as the Pakistani captain, come responsibilities like being politicaly correct. Whats stopping him from using an interpreter to express himself correctly and fluently in Urdu? In fact, he should be proud to do so.
It was such a good game of cricket. Great cameos from players on both sides, Umar Gul, Gambhir, Misbah and Pathan. Wish I had switched off the telly before the presentation. Its usually such a bad PR exercise. It really left me with a bad taste in the mouth when Shoaib said what he did. I hope he didnt mean what he said, but that does not justify his comment. An apology and a clarification should be a good move.
Mukul, nice article and a brave one. Even more so, since this is never an easy issue to grapple with and its so easy to be misunderstood. Still, gotta do what you gotta do.
Btw, I just finished reading 'Looking through Glass'. Loved it!

I read several comments supporting Malik's statement laying the blame on his lack of English - well, my friends, we have had several Pakistani players in the past and even Bangladeshi players, talking in their native toungue when they could not express their feeling properly. Malik could have as well done that and not made a blunder to give out such a nonsense statement. Syntax & grammar errors aside, his English put forth this view clearly - so let us not blame English at this stage. Players, expecially captains should be given proper training on public speaking before they start making statements creating controversies! On should understand that the world we live in today has already enough problems dealing with religious fanatics and we do not need sportsmen to give them further reasons to ptray their fanatism! Stick to sports and please keep religion out! Everyone knows that this is the holy month for prayers - so what is that got to do with sports now? Does it mean that any match played on Christmad would be in favor of Christians or a match played on Diwali be a hindu-supported match! Come on guys - play and talk sports as a sportsman!!! Be graceful in victory and defeat equally!

PEOPLE ITS RAMZAN IN THE MUSLIM FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!

what shoaib malik said is equivalent to matty hayden saying merry christmas! ramzan is a holy month for muslims, and shoaib just wanted to thank them for their prayers!

U may have larger number of muslims in pakistan Naveed Akhtar bhai..but we have ppl like Anis and Ali Rizvi who wud anyday root for India...Its not about religiuos faith rather support and cheering for their motherland...And as a citizens of India we take extreme pride in having brothers like them..Cheers Bro...

Mukul, it's a perfect example of trying to create a controversy out of nothing and thus spoil a memorable final. Do you think Shoaib is not aware that there are Muslims in India and there are Muslim players in the Indian team? Do you think that he was trying to imply that Indian Muslims (including players in the Indian team) support Pakistan team? If not, why using the term ALL Muslims is anything more than a slip of tongue? Shoaib was trying to categorize Pakistani team supporters outside Pakistan and he used the term ALL Muslims. BTW Indian Muslims are in fact sometimes accused of supporting Pakistan in India Pakistan matches. And also it is fairly safe to assume that majority of the non Indian Muslim cricket fans support Pakistan. So why are trying to create a mountain out of a mole?

I think its taken out of context. Shoaib made a comment before the match about Ramadan and prayers. This was a followup for that. The only mistake was not to thank all other supporters of Pakistan team and fans of cricket.

The writer is so good at manipulating the audiences.

1) He should know that Shoaib doesn't speaks english.
2) Cultural differences in transfering the language from Urdu to English.

Now since you knew that much about Danish Kaneria. How possibly! You cannot figure out that Shoaib doesn't speaks english!

Hence you see the results in the nervousness, of answering a totally different questions!

well written article. more or less what a lot of people were thinking.

the comments from mailk were disspointing, coming from the national team captain. for his own sake, and the sake of the team, i hope he realizes the mistake in this attitude.

altough it was a rather exciting game and a fitting finale to the tournment. I'm happy India won and even more pleased about this entire world cup having so many well contested matches.

The general view seems to be that Shoaib is ... just poor at spoken english. ...Mr Malik does not appear to be driven by motives that lead to division of the world of cricket along religious lines. Moreover his captaincy in the tournament proves that his intelligence is definitely beyond question. Thus it is unlikely that he truly believed "muslims all over the world" were rooting for his team.
However, I fail to understand why Paskistani as well as Indian players feel compelled to speak in a foreign tongue they are not always comfortable in? With Ravi Shastri being the master of ceremonies it would have being simple to translate whatever was being said in either Urdu or Hindi.

Hopefully he didn't meant to say this . He is probably not fluent in english,probably was nerous a little bit too . Nevertheless they should understand it is wise to keep sport and religion separate. I am an indian Hindu and as a cricket lover i admire the talents of some of the Pakistani players. This is an insult to people who love the sport. Its a sport let it remain just a sport.

Well lets just hope that Shoaib did not mean what he said and all is fair. Cricket was the winner here and both the teams deserve a lot of credit for the way they performed. I have never seen India and Pakistan play the way they did...Amazing cricket all around. I loved the way the Indians celebrated with Bhangra music playing in the background. It was great to see the team spirit and to see them enjoying themselves. The celebrations were just awesome to watch and Yuvraj, Sree, Harbhajan and Uthappa did an impromptu dance which thrilled me to bits.

Guys give him a break, I am an Indian Muslim and I rooted for India all the way, I am sure he meant pakistanise all over the world. Damn we make something out of nothing.....

Well I think that we should not create any issue about Malik's comment. He was at the loosing end and what he said was obviously by mistake, he didn't mean that for sure.He is a new captain and was bit nervous at that time and rather than criticizing his communication skills we should focus on the fact that he took the pakistan team upto this stage out of nowhere. There is no point of talking about this comment when we have so much to talk about. In the end it was a great match and full credit to Misbah for bringing his team so close to the Cup. But we can't take anything away from the young Indian team who showed to the world that there is more to the Indian Cricket then just TRIO of Dada,tendulkar and dravid

These pakistanis never growup..all who are saying that, this is toungue slip are fools...they want to divide INDIA on the basis of religion. pakis suck to the core.

I feel the ICC should step in and have a code of conduct on these issues. Its ridicules that a captain of a team comes and says his prayers before saying a few stupid words that hurts the entire nation. The ICC should say that its cricket that you have played please stick to cricket and leave the bloody muslims alone, enough of trouble we have in the world with stupid people like these cause riots on religion and kill innocent people. Its time that ICC puts their foot down and say no more religion in cricket do what you want in your dressing room before you come out and face the public. This is a mockery of religion, like the saying goes leave religion & politics alone simply play cricket. Cricket is a universal game for every one to enjoy with idiotic captains like Malik and Inz they will turn cricket to war. Malik and Inz have created a hate red towards Pakistan for all non muslims and will never support Pakistan.

I have to respond to Jerry's comments re Mukul's article.

Like Jerry, Mukul is also entitled for his views and observations. In fact, I was also originally offended by Pak Captain's remarks. But being a decent human being I certainly believe that he was being thankful to his muslim supporters especially the Pakistanis, for their prayers, which is quite understandable. We should also give him (Shoaib) benefit of doubt for his apparent deficiency in English language.

This , however, does not forbid Mr. Mukul to express his thoughts as he did in CRICINFO. But for Jerry to say that CRICINFO should not allow this article to be published in the WEBSIDE is totally ridiculous. Mukul wrote what he felt was an obvious shotcoming in Shoaib's speech.

In my opinion, Shoaib should issue a statement to explain as to what he meant in this context to defuse the issue.

I am sure, everybody would accept his justification with an open mind, as his contovrsal comments were made in an emotional state.

Mr Kesavan ,
Wheres the benefit of doubt here ?
You have taken the words of a man obviously not comfortable in English and put your own spin to it. The only person who knows what he meant would have been Shoaib himself. Stick to cricket.

A Proud Indian.

What a great game! all the more sweeter as India won, heheh! So many young (and not so young) players for both India and Pakistan rising to the occasion. Gambhir and Rohit have grown into real players and Irfan is back in his groove again, this time in the company of his bro! Yuvi has been unbelievable. For Pakistan, glad to see a much improved Umar and why did they hide Misbah all these years? Reminds me of Australia not using Hussey for so long.Afridi seems to have missed out on the fun with the bat compared to others, I think he should be batting up in the order in T20.
As for the writers take on Shoaib's comments, I think it's unwarranted. I too was a little taken aback by his comments but we should give the benefit of doubt to the poor guy who is under tremendous pressure and coming from the the worst moments of his life to face millions of people on tv. He seems to be a nice and calm guy who always gives his best on the field. let's forgive his slip up and applaud his efforts as a player and as a captain.
It's very refreshing to see Dhoni's approach to captaincy. We'll have to wait and see how long this can continue. Once he starts losing, the same carefree attitude will get cruelly criticized. But for now, let's enjoy the great games that this tournament has given us.

Mukul, why do you want to raise inconsequential issues. Sure, he may have said something wrongly, but let's focus on the cricket. This is irresponsible and sensationist journalism, the kind of which spoils the relationship between our country and Pakistan. Pakistan cricketers respect Indian cricketers and vice versa. They even address Ravi Shastri as Ravi Bhai and Gavaskar as Sunil Bhai. Stop creating issues in the name of religion. I am an Indian Hindu and as much as I support my own team, I am proud of this Pakistani team for their self-belief and effort.

I agree with you that Dhoni is a cool headed captain India has seen in a while. Having said that, this is also a raw but talented, fearless, young, no-legacy Indian team in a long time. It is important to nurture and develop this talent to win higher laurels for India.

At this point, it is also important to remember that the game could have easily have gone Pakistan's way with one shot. While that would have been disappointing as an Indian, it certainly would not have diminished the flair and enthusiasm this team played throughout the tournament. We, as Indian fans, have often seen the reverse happen - the mighty, star-studded Indian teams of the past unable to deliver when it mattered critically and smashing the dreams of a billion Indians. Let us hope the tide has now changed with this new-look team and the powers that matter gives this team an extended run.

As for Shaoib's comment, let us hope it a slip of the tongue and give him the benefit of doubt in what he said. After all, his mind would have been pressured by the loss of a match that he would have thought was already theirs with just a 6 needed from an inexperienced bowler off 4 balls.

the problem is that the media forces english on all the players....so many times u have heard pak. players sound stupid on camera...its not their fault though....why not let them talk in a language they are comfortable with..let someone translate..thats the norm in other premier sporting events...olympics, football....for some reason cricket has this obsession with english..probably cos the englishmen spread it around....

I do hope Malik's comments were due to poor word choice resulting from his lack of English skills, but even as Pakistani muslim I must say his comments were well-intentioned but horribly expressed. I hope he realizes his mistake and apologizes.

May be that was a statement to prevent himself and his team being hurt as they go back to Pak. We have seen in the past this team being dealt with indifferently. I would rather say that this comes out of insecurity and nervousness (on stage).

I am appauled by the statement made by Malik. It is one thing to apologize to Pakistan for the defeat at the hands of Indians, but it is a completely out of line to say that he is sorry for all muslims around the world who were rooting for Pakistan to win against India. What is not important is that Pakistan was playing against India. It could have been any other team in the final. How can he make a general statement and assume that all muslims around the world support Pakistan?

Well written article Mukul!!! I look forward to your response. Also, I don't think Malik needs to apologize, ask why? If he is a mature adult and a professional cricketer, he will realize his mistake and correct his language in the future.

I am sure he did not mean to say what he said. I think what he meant to say was that he was thankful for all the Pakistanis living in Pakistan or abroad for supporting his team. Having said this, I do agree that he should be more careful in choosing the right words from next time onwards.

Apart from this, I believe all of us have had a chance of witnessing one hell of a final which has become a rarity these days. Cheers for both teams for making it such a special event.

I guess we should just not aggravate this issue, It was a mere slip of tongue from Shohaib. I don't think he meant to hurt a religious sentiment.

I totally agree with that religion should not be brought into cricket.But I would still give benefit of doubt to Shoaib Malik he probably wanted to thank pakistani muslims all over the world who were praying for him during this month of Ramadan. He was confused and does not have the language ability to say exactly what he meant.However if he made a genuine mistke, I am quite sure he is mature enough to grow out of it.
I dont think it is fair on our part to judge him as a captain and overlook all his potential just becasue of this comment.

They say that religion and politics should be kept separate. Religion and cricket should certainly be kept cricket. Games like cricket are all that keeps a crazy world clinging to the edge of reason (except when you have unbearably close matches!).

Bang on again Mukul again!
Captaincy has chosen Dhoni rather than the other way around.This man backs himself and his team; can take risks,calculated one though and test captaincy is his destiny now.
Coming to Shoaib Malik's comments,yes they were irrelevant...

Dear Mukul, and everyone else who has read and commented. Firstly congrats to India, they were the superior team not just in the final but throughout as wins over South Africa, Pakistan, Australia and England proved. Well done to their players and captain for playin breath taking and exhilirating cricket that even this die hard pakistani had to get up and applaud (no easy feat trust me!) well done for being passionate, even if a little too much in sreeshanth but hey he loves his country and is only being himself, good on him. And well done for not giving up in the final when maybe all us Pakistanis felt that we could give it a go, well done to RP, Irfan and the lot.
Now to your last point my friend. Shoaib did infact utter those very words. But it was a slip of the tongue. No one in their right mind would think that the World's muslims root only for Pakistan as the ones in India most definetely dont! Also quite a lot of the muslim world doesnt even watch our game. Its Ramzan, a holy month and our captain (who is no bigot, just like the majority of Pakisanis) probably wanted to thank the Pakistanis around the world and ended up saying muslims. English is not his first language and he made a mistake. Please dont take away from India's glory by focusing on an issue that is a relative non issue to all involved. This is not about terrorism, religious intolerance and Indo-Pak problems. This is about the fact that we, together, gave the world a final to behold and that the better team on the day and the best team in the tournament won. Pakistan played her part but in the end it is India who will stand tall and we should all salute her achievements and await our chance!

Nice article, but in slightly bad taste !
Yes, shoaib malik did say those words that uve quoted in ur article above, but Im pretty sure he actually meant to thank the pakistani fans all over the world and not jst the muslim community. I mean we all know he's not so fluent with english, and when people talk in smthing they are not comfortable with, they tend to sometimes not get the correct words out ! and this is exactly wat happened with him. Lets just enjoy the match, the spectacle and the result (:D) and leave the religious sentiments aside.

Mukul, the guy is just in his early 20s, captaining pakistan and lost to above all india in a v v close world cup final encounter.. He fumbled with his words, with time he will learn. I think we should give shoaib little leniency we dont need to be so hard on him yet!

It is very sad that Malik who is married to an indian muslim girl from Hyderabad (AP) decided to display his ignorance and utter lack of diplomacy at that moment.
I'm glad you have pointed it out. Vert often we shy away from denigrating such comments but I'#m glad you have done so.

Sports and religion should be apart... As such, I dont agree with sportsmen extolling their religious beliefs when they win.... We've all seen what Hansie was really all about...so none of his christian propaganda really came from the heart.
A secure person would never have to advertise his affiliations...

I too do think it was a slip of the tongue and he only wanted to thank Pakistanis all over the world. He does not look the kind of person who would single out Muslims for supporting Pakistan. He is clearly not at ease speaking English, it happens.

Which brings us back to a Q you had raised earlier: Why don't they answer interviews in their mother tongue? Ravi Shastri could easily have interviewed him in Hindustani and translated it to others. No problem.

I am a Pakistani Muslim, and i was also shocked to hear this from him. It was not to right such things. I am 100 % sure he didnt mean it. I think it was really the disappointment in the end. There wasnt enough senior players who can motivate them for such a good performance. This game could go also other way. Its really not an issue to discuss here. But as we all know its a habit of all indian writers to attack the other countries. They dont understand the situation and take normally the words. He told also that RP Singh and Irfan Pathan bowled very good. I dont think he wanted to attack someone with his comments. He has to avoid such mad comments

a 20 yr old guy capataining his country in the biggest match of his life and he loses n fumbles with his words....seriouslu cut him some slack ...trust you to spoil a wonderful ocassion and taking the talk away from cricket !!!

When I heard Shoaib say those words, my first impression was, why did he, he was articulate enough to crack a joke about shifting down gears from T20 to Test cricket and why would he utter such a statement. Then I realized that actually Shoaib was quite tact. I felt, by saying so, he exonerated himself from getting lynched back home. Knowing the subcontinent cricket craziness, where it matters not how well you led the side but the mere thought that you lost to India twice, he had to appeal himself religiously. I think inspite of being a captain he had himself vindicated. On hindsight reading about the effigies of Younis and poor Afridi burnt, for a captain, Shoaib did extremely well.

It wwas just a slip of tongue. His english is bad and he is struggling with his english still. He just wanted to thank all the pakistani supporters and by mistake said muslims. Just dont blow this all out of proportion.

And he is not married to any indian muslim girl - this has been confirmed. He did not mean to hurt anyones feeling. he just thanked them but got the words wrong !

Come on guys, do not overreact to the words of shoaib to that extent.

I am a die hard Indian Supporter. At the outset when I watched him speaking at the final ceremony, indeed I was shocked when I heard those words coming out from his mouth and became very furious. Susequently, I thought that he would have really not meant muslims but Pakistanis living in the world, who has prayed for them.

So, why can't he be pardoned, perhaps for his slip of tongue and usesage of wrong word at a wrong time. He is a young budding captain and will soon correct his mistakes learn how to talk and what to talk. Some times it can happen to any one who is not used and conditioned in public speaking (especially for non english speaking) in english, in fornt of such a huge crowd / cameras etc., when his morale & motivational levels are low due to the defeat

Mr Kesavan article is good but I would appreciate if he doesn't blow up such things, which will have a cascading effects on the feelings of Indians - pakistanis and Indo-pak relationship.

indian team is good form and good captan

what a totally irresponisble blog. please give malik a break. we're not all pseudo-intellectuals like the writer of this blog: malik is a young, simple man with a good cricket brain and who doesn't think in english (unlike many indians). the guy just said something in the heat of the moment in his non-native language - he didn't mean to cause offence to the hundreds of indians who are hurling abuse at him now.
in previous games malik has said "thanks to pakistanis around the world" - this time it just came out wrongly. or maybe malik has received many prayers during ramadan from friends around the world, i don't know. either way you're making way to big a deal about this, and encouraging pakistani bashing and religion bashing. let's focus on the cricket: it's a shame you couldn't do that. india and pakistan played a brilliant game of cricket in the right spirit that will live long in the memory.
yours,
cb fry

Please don't make it a big issue. Shohaib Malik is a decent guy and internaly he might have never meant it hurt anyone. I doubt that he was stressing Holy Month of Ramadhan in his previous conversations. So u know in this Holy month every Muslim brothers will pray for each others success. Shoaib should be more careful while talking. Hez a polite chap. Further, at a tensed time v may not think wat v r really speaking about. SO FORGIVE HIM. However, Shohaib must be more careful while passing such comments. Please don't make it a serious issue. Let us all (Hindus, Muslims, Christians, or whoever) be united and look for the welfare of the game. Gud Luck guys. Keep the spirit. Avoid any communal clashes. Luv Raghav

Shoiabs comments shocked me-I had been watching cricket all my life and over the past 5 or 6 years I can see the distinct change in the attitudes of Pakistani team.Previously there was never such an overt display of religion but now it is common for them to bring religion in every press conference.Bob Woolmer was convinced that Pak team were more keen to practice their religion than cricket and that probably led to their decline as a team.

-He's not a linguist like you Mr. Kesavan. If he was as good with mincing words as you are, he'd have been writing controversial articles for cricinfo to make a living instead of leading an international team a shot away from the world cup glory.

-Most Pakistanis are not good at English because in Pakistan, nobody's forced to learn English or any other foreign language. We take pride in our language.

-I'm sure he meant to say he wanted to thank Pakistanis all over the world and wanted to mention he appreciates how most Pakistanis (who happen to be muslim) are praying for the team during the fasting month of Ramadan, just like when Pak won World cup 92. And face it, its Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Most Pakistanis will never even meet a non muslim in their lives so to expect some to sound as diversified as others is unpractical.

-Having said that, in my opinion no religion has anything to do with...anything. Let alone cricket. He must not make a fool out of himself like Inzi.

-They should either have an interpretor for Pakistanis or PCB should educate atleast the captain on how to communicate in English without being vilified. They're after all ambassadors for the country and the game.

-Congratulations to our cousins who we rooted for everytime they weren't facing us. Best of luck for the SA series and may the Subcontinent's reign in cricket prevail.

Well, its true that the statement when said sounded wrong, but i think the intention was to tell that all the supporters of pakistan and since majority of pakistanis being muslim, he adressed it my mistake as muslims. Or else he must have felt that only muslims support pakistanis other than any one else. It's his thinking but his language ditched him

well there is nothing for india to show off about, they only won by 5 runs and pakistan was not exactly thrashed were they and i believe pak deserved to win, and all those people saying there are more muslims in india than pakistan they are wrong they have all of their information wrong, i live in the u.k and i am shocked about the way people from india are making silly remarks, when they should be happy and celebrating that india won well it is nothing big it is only a game, so why show off because they are insecure thats why they show off, i am a muslim and dont forget that the india teams got muslim players too. also what shoiab malik said he said it ti those muslims who were praying for pakistan and i am a muslim and i was praying so what shoaib said there is nothing wrong about that. so leave shoaib alone and stop making illiterate remarks and all of those who were supporting india go home and celebrate instead of comint on the net and criticizing shoaib! you people have no good education that is why you do not understand what shoaib said. so stop being illiterate if you have a problem with what i have to say just mail me!

I think we should not exploit this..... its just a speech after tense moments of cricket.... I'm 100 percent sure that he did not say that to hurt anyonez feelings.... Give him a break....And u making an article out of it is immoral ... just don't exploit the matter... We should not think so negatively... Atleast Shahid Afridi Congratulated the Indian team... But noone from the Indian team congratulated Pakistan on reaching the Final and becomming Runners Up for the 20/20 world cup... Its a shame when people take a word out of someonez interview and create so much fuss about it...

Some people seem to be batting for Mali, saying he meant Pakistanis & not Muslims. Even if that were to be correct, I guess he still got it completely wrong.

True sports fans support individuals & teams regardless of their country of origin, colour & religion. We were admiring the way Gul bowled yorker after yorker. There are countless Hindu supporters for Pakistan & Muslim supporters for India and both teams have supporters world-over who are neither Hindu nor Muslim.

For God's sake, let's not bring religion into sport.

The Indian team has a true universal look with players from diverse religions, states etc., with the game spirit being the only uniting factor.

I am sure that what shoab has said has the approval of majority of the fans in pakistan itself.But I personally feel that he did not really mean it though he should have been more careful as he is representing a country where non muslims are also present.It hurts them more than others as they would have cheered for the team .Let us not make a big issue out of it & PCB would be definitely advising him to be careful in future.There is nothing wrong in communicating in a language he is comfortable with so that communication gaps could be avoided.LET US ENJOY THE POSITIVE SIDE OF THIS WC WHERE BOTH INDIA & PAKISTAN HUMBLED GREAT TEAMS ESP.AUSTRALIA & REACHED THE FINALS.MISBAH & YUVI'S SIXES,UMARGUL &RPSINGH'S BOWLING ,DHONI &MALIK'S CAPTAINCY-EVERY THING WAS WONDERFUL.

Shoaib is right. Like Durban hindus supported India, the same way he thought muslims all over the world did the same for Pakistan. He is very much right.

shoiab's comment in fact stained an otherwise flawless tournament for Pakistan.

THANK GOD - AND ENGLAND - FOR CRICKET!!!!!!!
From one of Indian origin.

I think just like state and religion needs to be seperated for obvious reasons, sport and religion needs to be separated for obvious reasons. Sport is a tribute to the human spirit irrespective of the religious leanings of the individual. A person's religious beliefs may give him strength and hope to achieve what he does, but it is not the reason he will succeed in his endeavour. I sincerely think Shoaib Malik may have said those words inadvertantly and therefore I will give him the benefit of doubt. But during the match, I did not look at Umar gul's searing yorkers as those bowled by a muslim, but those bowled by a master of quick bowling...i did not look at gambhir's cultured slogs to six as attempts from a hindu..but as a batsman desperate to give his bowlers a decent chance to win the game...sports is given to its own religious beliefs and some of the posters that you see in matches "If cricket is a religion...tendulkar is my god" are apt testimony to the fact that in sport the only winners are the sportspersons and the people who root them on to greater glory...

I think sir, you are overreacting. Sorry. You see, I am a neutral. (South African) Not Indian, Not Pakistani. Not Muslim, not part of Christendom. BUT, I watched all the games...and for each and every game I chose a team to support. Except the final. Now, I believe that Malik was so caught up in the moment that what he really meant to say was completely misconstrued. Seeing as English is sort of my third language too, I know how that can happen.

As far as the captains congratulating one another are concerned, I want to correct one of the posters here. Malik DID congratulate India ...It was Dhoni who made no reference at all to the Paksitani's. I was a bit dissapointed with that.

I completely agree with Mukul.I was dumbstruck when I heard the utterance on TV.I guess Shoaib is on the learning curve and as he goes along this fine young captain will realise that as an ambassador for Pakistan cricket what he says and how he says it matters a lot.Should Mukul have spelt it in black and white.Absolutely.Like Dhoni,one expects that Shoaib too reads cricinfo.And to make sure he does read this one,Mukul could ask his fellow blogger Kamaran to pass a copy to his country's captain.If what I have seen on the field of Shoaib Malik is any indication, he will quickly assimilate this lesson.

It was a great match and the World cup a success.Hats off to both teams .India held their nerve and won a thriller.I fully agree with Mukul Kesevan.It was boorish on part of Pakistan captain to comment that " he would like to thank all Muslims around the world".But India has Pathan brothers and their family should be supporting pakistan as per Malik's comments which is in bad taste.Danish Kaneria is a hindu and by the same notion his family should be supporting India.Please take religion out of cricket.

All that said and a spoilt sport for not congratulating India on a terrific win? Show some Class shoaib, Afridi could?

I think Shoaib wanted to thank Muslims for praying in the Holy Month of Ramzan . He was quite confused and dejected.

I appreciate and Congrats Indians by Winning the Cup and I am impressed with fighting instinct of Misbah - Unfortunately he couldnt cross the finishing line but it was great.

Great match :)
Regarding the Shoaib remark, I think it has little to do with his proficiency(lack of) in English.
We in India are accustomed to the idea of a secular state where religion and the state are distinct. However, a person who has been brought up in a theocratic state may struggle to make the distinction and hence the mistake. The western ideal of an irreligious state is not easily comprehended by millions around the world.

I am 100% sure that Shoaib didn't really mean to say "muslims", but intended "Pakistan". I hope the Pakistan Board gives the captain a few lessons in English, as this might lead to more embarassing scenes for Pakistan.

But, What a game!!! What an innings by Misbah, but India all the Way!!!

Dhoom Dhoom Dhoni!!!!!

To remind Mr. Naveed Akthar about the facts about the muslim population in the world.India has the second largest muslim population in the world next only to Indonesia. Pakistan comes only third after India.
Country Muslim Population
Indonesia 203,568,721
Pakistan 143,233,526
India 125,501,427
Bangladesh 110,702,648

I'm an ardent reader of your stories but I think on Shoaib's parting comments - you are just making a mountain out of a molehill. It's obvious to perhaps even the deaf that he's the least articulate and searching for the next right word out of his brain and a sentence out of sync with no meaning whatsoever was bound to slip sooner than later. I'm a Sri Lankan but I rooted for India once the Lankans got knocked out. I'm thrilled at the end result but to read you trying to inflate a sentence out of proportion, perhaps makes a mockery of the ethics of writing. Cricket was a big winner on the night and lets not make this another outlandish India-Pakistan war of attrition. Savour the moment and enjoy the feeling !!!

By reading all the comments I am also feeling like Shoib's less fluency in English might have misinterpreted his feelings. But such a sensible captain must be much more sensible while speaking on such a big stage...For true cricket lovers, bringing religion in between hurts a lot....

You are spot on Mukul. But i believe he never intended that way.It was rather the moment that made him speak that way. Lets give him the benefit of doubt.

Dear Mr. Mukul,
I understand your criticism of Shoaib Malik, but did you think Soaib Malik meant what you are criticism. Since it is holy month he just sent his good wishes to fellow muslims so please don't create controversies out of something said with good intentions. But you newspaper man just sensationalise for nothing trying to create storm out of a tea-cup.Please for peace sake don't look for bad where there is none. thanks but no thanks

Hi Mukul, He Said - I want to thank you back home Pakistan and where the Muslim lives all over the world, Why are we deducing that he meant that all muslims were rooting for PAKISTAN, he was thanking muslims who prayed for Pakistan, back home and where ever else they were praying for Pakistan. Pakistan is an Islamic country, their cricket team is - Qauami Team - so its Qauam - the nation - the concept of which for them is - Islamic. So whats wrong -that's their choice. We have our concept of Nation - which is secular - we have khans as superstas, kalams as president and pathans as our strike bowlers along with kapoors, gandhis. singhs and rustomjis...These are two different nations with two different ways of thinking, Your reaction to Malik's statement is coming from an Indian mind, where as to a Pakistaani mind its quite ok. Its alright they played a great game and hats off to BOTH TEAMS, just to add Malik HAS VERY LITTLE exposure for him to show more International approach like Shahid Afridi, let it be..its ok, there is no need to react negatively about it, and yes I agree with some one who said let the beer flow - this is Indian Mindset...cheers

Actually I felt more let down by Dhoni and him not appreciating the efforts of Pakistan and especially Mizba ul Haq in his acceptance speech.
That would have been a gracious gesture. Also I think Shoaib should be given the benefit of doubt as its is customary and necessary for him to bring religion and not too much should be read into it.

This was a cracking final. How often have we seen World Cup finals not live up to their expectations and become a one-sided contest. This game between India and Pakistan was not so, I am happy to say. Great Game. CHAK DE INDIA!!!

Congrats Mr.Dhoni. You nearly lost it but ?? All is well when it ends well. The last over Mistabah lost it. Why are you keeping away Dinesh Karthick ? Pathan who had never played a match so far comes and plays the finals. He is serious threat to you - watch out. People forgive and forget till you win.

its amazing how every shoaib supporter has suddenly developed the ability to get inside his head n read his mind...n therefore KNOW that he actually meant "every PAKISTANI" and not the "every MUSLIM" that he said!! WOW! great skill, guys...errr, i wud suggest that you try reading my mind now...got some choice words for u there! LOL

I think that stage was not set for wishing fellow muslims on holy month. It was a great moment with cricket at its peak. What I feel is Malik was trying for the sympathy of Pak fans. He would have thanked the organizers and the supporter fans instead. Game should be at its pure form...

Mukul,I surely feel that Shoib ended up saying something which he didnot mean to say due to his lack of English knowledge.He seems to me a more balanced character than his predeccers.
But,by pointing it out in your article such embaracing situations could be avoided by cricketeers opting to speak in languages which they are comfortable with along with translators .Than to be misquoted.

Please don't raise it as a big issue. If it get into the hands of radical forces like VHP & BJP, then they will make it as a serious offence and try to gain votes from it. So please keep cool and letz enjoy this gr8 movement. Our team has won. Appreciate sincere efforts of Dhoni & crew. Irfan Pathan has played superbly. Give them the motivation. Gud luck.

It was a foolish statement. I know shoaib personally and spoke to him later. His explaination is that he by mistake took the word muslim for pakistanis.