Michael Vaughan’s comments that England players should have focused on IPL 2024 instead of joining the national team for the Pakistan series didn’t go down well in Pakistan. Pakistani journalist Farid Khan was among those who slammed the former England captain for his comments, but Khan now seems to agree with Vaughan’s opinion.
England won the Pakistan T20I series 2-0 after two of the four-match series were cancelled. Jos Buttler, a key member of Rajasthan Royals (RR), was absent from the team for international duty. Led by Sanju Samson, RR failed to qualify for the final after losing to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the second Qualifier despite the Pink Army having a great start to the tournament.
Phil Salt made a huge impact as an opening batsman alongside Sunil Narine for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), but his absence was more than made up for by Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who came in to replace Salt and delivered some impressive performances in the playoffs.
Will Jacks has left Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after scoring a century off 41 balls against Gujarat Titans (GT) that ultimately played a key role in RCB’s berth in the playoffs.
“I think England missed an opportunity by sending all their players home, particularly Will Jacks, Phil Salt and Jos Buttler, who are playing in the IPL with losses, pressure, crowds and expectations and I think playing here will prepare them better than the T20 match against Pakistan,” Vaughan said of England’s players who have left the IPL.
Farid Khan’s apology
Following Pakistan’s series loss to England, Khan apologised to former England cricketer Vaughan for his earlier criticism. Khan’s comments were likely born out of deep despair at Pakistan’s humiliating defeat under captain Babar Azam.
“Michael, I’m sorry, I apologise! You were right. The IPL playoffs would have been better preparation for England than the T20 games against Pakistan. We didn’t deserve it. Embarrassing,” Khan said in a video message.
Vaughn acknowledged Khan’s apology, writing, “I accept the apology.”
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