Wed Oct 16 09:05:55 UTC 2024: ## Pakistan’s Ghulam Shines on Test Debut After Controversial PSL Incident Resurfaces
**Multan, Pakistan:** Kamran Ghulam, the unassuming right-handed batter, turned heads on his Test debut for Pakistan, scoring a sensational century against England in the second Test at Multan. However, Ghulam’s remarkable performance was overshadowed by a resurfaced video from the Pakistan Super League (PSL) showing a seemingly aggressive act by his teammate, Haris Rauf.
The incident occurred during a 2022 PSL match between Peshawar Zalmi and Lahore Qalandars, with Rauf slapping Ghulam after taking a wicket. While Ghulam laughed it off at the time, the intensity of the slap and Rauf’s expression sparked controversy, with many fans labeling it as bullying.
Despite the lingering controversy, Ghulam showcased his immense talent on the Test stage, guiding Pakistan to a respectable 259 for 5 at stumps on Day 1. His patient knock of 118 runs off 224 balls made him the 13th Pakistani batsman to score a century on debut and the first to achieve this feat against England.
Ghulam acknowledged the immense pressure he faced replacing the out-of-form Babar Azam in the team. “There was immense pressure playing in his (Babar’s) place, but the desire to succeed overrode that pressure,” he said. He credits his persistence in domestic cricket over the past four years for his success, stating, “Years of grinding it out in domestic cricket has given me the temperament and skills to play on all sorts of pitches and all types of bowlers.”
The century by Ghulam came at a crucial time, with selectors facing criticism for dropping Babar for the last two Tests against England. One selector commented, “I am just happy that he (Kamran Ghulam) got his chance at last and he grabbed it with both hands.”
As Ghulam celebrates his impressive debut, the controversy surrounding the PSL incident continues to simmer. While Ghulam’s performance speaks volumes about his talent, questions regarding Rauf’s behavior and the boundaries of team celebrations persist. The incident raises concerns about the culture within the Pakistani cricket team and the need for better support and guidance for players facing pressure.
First Piper 