KARACHI: Amidst a backdrop of delayed visa approvals for Pakistani fans and journalists, Zainab Abbas, the ICC’s presenter for World Cup 2023, has left India following a legal complaint that alleged she made “anti-Hindu” statements. An Indian lawyer filed a complaint against her, leading to her decision to leave India.
A spokesperson from the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed the development, saying Zainab Abbas left the country for “personal reasons” and was not deported by India.
The complaint against Abbas was related to statements she allegedly made against India and Hinduism, as per reports. An Indian lawyer had reportedly approached the police to register this complaint.
Zainab Abbas was at ICC Presenters Panel
Earlier this month, Zainab Abbas was announced as one of the presenters for this year’s World Cup. She had expressed her excitement about the opportunity to travel to India when the announcement was made.
On social media, she shared her feelings, stating that she was “humbled” to be part of the star-studded lineup of commentators and presenters for the mega event. She mentioned her intrigue about discovering what lies in India.
Although India and Pakistan are neighboring countries, cultural exchanges between them are limited due to strained diplomatic relations.
Zainab Abbas said that there has always been curiosity about what exists on the opposite side, with more cultural resemblances than disparities, rivalry on the field but companionship off it, a shared language, a passion for the arts, and a nation of a billion people. ‘I’m here to represent, generate content, and contribute expertise from the finest in the industry.”
She expressed her humility in presenting during the World Cup in India for the ICC once again and shared that her journey away from home for six weeks was beginning.
It is worth noting that despite reminders from the Pakistan Cricket Board, India has yet to grant visas to Pakistani fans and journalists.
