It seems as if Pakistanis have developed an uncanny ability to attract controversy.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) withdrew elite panel umpire Asad Rauf from the upcoming Champions Trophy recently, suggesting it was “in the best interests” of the Pakistani and the event itself that he is pulled out from the tournament. The sport’s governing body made the decision a day after media reports indicated the umpire was under investigation by the Mumbai Police, which are looking into the spot-fixing saga that has embroiled the Indian Premier League (IPL). While the police played it safe by refusing to confirm Mr Rauf being investigated, the ICC’s call came in haste and needs to be noted as such since it was only based on media reports.
After the three accused Indian players were arrested, along with several bookies and an Indian actor, Mr Rauf’s name being dragged with the rest of them is an unfortunate development for Pakistan. It seems as if Pakistanis have developed an uncanny ability to attract controversy — especially on the global stage where the most damage occurs. But it also reflects that, in part, Pakistan is being targeted. This is likely to stem from the country’s history of corruption and how, as a nation, we have become immune to its existence.
What should be noted, however, is that Mr Rauf’s decisions on the field have rarely been questioned. Off the field, too, barring the episode when an Indian model filed a complaint against him for sexually exploiting her before retracting it, the Pakistani has remained an unblemished soul. An experienced and skilful umpire is a rarity. It is an honour that two Pakistanis have represented the country at the IPL, which does not fancy our players yet wants our umpires to judge the tournament’s matches. It would be too soon to comment on Mr Rauf’s role in the spot-fixing saga because even alleged links with bookies do not amount to involvement in the act itself. While some may agree with the ICC’s decision, it is hoped that Mr Rauf’s involvement is ruled out since the country can ill-afford another spot-fixing stain.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 27th, 2013.
