A new controversy has taken centre stage in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL), involving Pakistan's emerging fast bowler Zaman Khan. The incident unfolded during a match on Saturday when veteran Australian batsman David Warner openly expressed concerns about Zaman's unconventional bowling action while facing him at the crease.
On-Field Confrontation and Warner's Remarks
Zaman Khan, playing his debut match of the season for the Brisbane Heat as a replacement for the injured Shaheen Shah Afridi, found himself in an unexpected spotlight. While batting for the Sydney Thunder, David Warner appeared visibly unsettled by the young pacer's delivery style. Warner, who scored a commanding 82 runs in the innings, was seen halting play on multiple occasions to discuss the action with the on-field umpires.
The cameras also captured a direct exchange between the two players. Warner was heard making a critical comment, stating, "He is bowling like a four-year-old bowling. It stay so low." This public questioning of a bowler's action during a live match is rare and immediately set off a wave of discussions among fans and commentators alike.
A Tough Debut and Fan Reaction
The debut proved challenging for Zaman Khan on the scoreboard as well. He conceded 32 runs in his three overs without managing to pick up a wicket or apply consistent pressure on the batters. Meanwhile, the reaction to Warner's comments was sharply divided. Some spectators and analysts agreed that Zaman's slingshot, low-arm action looked unorthodox and warranted scrutiny. Others, however, believed the Australian star's remarks were unduly harsh and could have been handled more discreetly off the field.
Despite the controversy surrounding its new recruit, the Brisbane Heat secured a comfortable victory. They successfully chased down their target to win the match by seven wickets, largely thanks to a fluent 78-run knock from Usman Khawaja.
Echoes of a Past Controversy
This incident has stirred memories of a previous BBL controversy involving another Pakistani fast bowler. In a prior season, Muhammad Hasnain's action was reported after concerns were raised by Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis. Hasnain was subsequently suspended from bowling, underwent a lengthy rehabilitation process to correct his action, and his international career suffered a significant setback.
The situation puts Zaman Khan, a promising talent known for his unique action, under an intense microscope. While no formal report has been announced by the match officials, the public nature of the criticism ensures that his bowling mechanics will be closely watched in his upcoming appearances in the league.
