Global Sportsmanship.

Pakistan's remarkable victory in the recent World Cup cricket match against Sri Lanka was not just a momentous achievement for the team but also an opportunity for cricketer Mohammad Rizwan to express his solidarity with the people of Gaza. However, this gesture ignited a firestorm of controversy, drawing criticism from various quarters, including prominent Indian columnist Rajdeep Sardesai. It is crucial to recognise that Rizwan's actions are not isolated; they exemplify a broader trend where athletes leverage their influence to shed light on global issues, transcending the boundaries of sports and fostering meaningful change.

In a tweet following Pakistan's win, Rizwan dedicated the victory to his 'brothers and sisters in Gaza'. While his intention was to express empathy and compassion, it stirred heated reactions. Some viewed his statement as implicit support for Hamas, a contention that Rizwan never intended to make. The reactions, especially on social media, ranged from disapproval to outright hostility, with suggestions that the Pakistan Cricket Team should be sent back home and that international sporting events should not be exploited for political agendas.

However, it is important to understand that Rizwan is not the first athlete to express solidarity with global causes...