Zainab Abbas, the World Cup 2023 presenter, left India on Monday after an Indian lawyer accused her of making “anti-Hindu” comments on her social media accounts in the past.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed to Geo News that the presenter had left the country for “personal reasons” and denied reports of deportation.
An Indian lawyer reportedly approached the police to file a complaint against Abbas for allegedly making anti-India and anti-Hindu statements.
Zainab Abbas as World Cup Presenters
Abbas was announced as one of the World Cup presenters earlier this month. When the announcement was made, the presenter was ecstatic about the opportunity to travel to India.
Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, the presenter stated that she was “humbled” to be a part of the mega event’s star-studded line-up of commentators and presenters.
There was always intrigue on what lies on the other side, more cultural similarities than differences, rivals on the field but camaraderie off the field, the same language & love for art & a country with a billion people, here to represent, to create content & bring in expertise… pic.twitter.com/dvoRUASpmm
— zainab abbas (@ZAbbasOfficial) October 2, 2023
The presenter stated that she is always curious about what lies in India.
Although India and Pakistan are neighbors, cultural exchanges are limited due to the two countries’ strained relations.
“There was always intrigue on what lies on the other side, more cultural similarities than differences, rivals on the field but camaraderie off the field, the same language and love for art and a country with a billion people, here to represent, to create content & bring in expertise from the best in the business,” said Zainab.
The presenter added that she was honored to be asked to present for the ICC again during the World Cup in India. “A journey away from home of 6 weeks starts now,” she said.
Despite numerous reminders from the Pakistan Cricket Board, India has yet to grant visas to Pakistani fans and journalists.
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