Colin Munro’s Chucking Accusation Against Iftikhar Ahmed Shakes Up PSL
In a dramatic turn of events during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL), New Zealand batter Colin Munro has ignited a firestorm of controversy by accusing Multan Sultans’ all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed of chucking. Representing Islamabad United, Munro’s bold claim unfolded during a high-octane clash on Wednesday, adding a fiery subplot to an already intense tournament.
The incident occurred in the 10th over of Islamabad United’s chase of a modest 169-run target set by Multan Sultans at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. As Iftikhar delivered a sharp, faster ball in the blockhole, Munro struggled to dig it out. Immediately after, he gestured animatedly, bending his elbow to mimic an illegal bowling action, clearly suggesting that Iftikhar was chucking. This provocative act didn’t go unnoticed, instantly riling up Iftikhar and drawing the attention of the entire Multan Sultans contingent.
A visibly agitated Iftikhar marched towards the umpires for a heated discussion, while players from both sides converged near the pitch. The situation threatened to escalate, but the on-field umpires, displaying commendable composure, managed to defuse the tension and ensure the game continued. However, the incident has left a lingering question over the spirit of the game and the scrutiny of bowling actions in the PSL 2024 season.
Despite the drama, defending champions Islamabad United maintained their focus, clinching a fifth consecutive victory to cement their dominance in the tournament. Chasing 169, they sealed the win with 17 balls to spare, thanks to a blistering unbeaten 80 off 45 balls from opener Andries Gous. Gous, who smashed six fours and five sixes, marked his maiden PSL half-century in style. Munro himself contributed a fiery 45 off 28 balls, laced with five boundaries and two towering sixes, before being dismissed in the 11th over by Michael Bracewell.
The chase began with a steady 29-run opening stand between Gous and Sahibzada Farhan, who scored 22 before departing early. Munro then joined Gous to forge a dynamic 81-run partnership for the second wicket off just 48 balls, setting the tone for the victory. After Munro’s exit, Mohammad Nawaz chipped in with a handy 21 off 19 balls, guiding United home alongside Gous in a composed 55-run stand.
Earlier in the day, Multan Sultans, after winning the toss and electing to bat, posted 168 for 5 in their 20 overs. Skipper Mohammad Rizwan anchored the innings with a steady 36 off 37 balls, while opener Yasir Khan provided the early fireworks with a brisk 29 off 17. The highlight, however, was Usman Khan’s explosive 61 off 40 balls, studded with four fours and as many sixes. A 65-run partnership between Rizwan and Usman kept Sultans on track, but Islamabad United’s bowlers, led by Mohammad Nawaz (1-13) and Shadab Khan, tightened the screws in the death overs, restricting them to just 42 runs in the final five overs.
Notable contributions came late from Kamran Ghulam, who remained unbeaten on 10 off 6 balls with a four and a six, but it wasn’t enough to set a daunting target. Islamabad’s disciplined bowling effort ensured they kept wickets in hand, dismissing key Sultans batters including Iftikhar Ahmed, whose bowling action would later become the talk of the match.
As the dust settles on this gripping encounter, Munro’s accusation looms large. Chucking allegations are a sensitive issue in cricket, often leading to intense debates over rules and player conduct. With the International Cricket Council (ICC) having strict guidelines on bowling actions—allowing a maximum elbow extension of 15 degrees—such claims can have serious repercussions if proven. For now, the cricketing fraternity awaits an official response from the PSL management and umpires’ panel regarding Munro’s gesture and whether Iftikhar’s action will face scrutiny.
This incident, coupled with Islamabad United’s commanding performance, ensures the PSL continues to deliver both on-field brilliance and off-field drama. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how this controversy unfolds and whether it impacts the camaraderie between the teams in future clashes.
Brief Scores:
Multan Sultans: 168/5 in 20 overs (Usman Khan 61, Mohammad Rizwan 36, Yasir Khan 29; Mohammad Nawaz 1-13, Shadab Khan 1-30)
Islamabad United: 171/3 in 17.1 overs (Andries Gous 80*, Colin Munro 45, Sahibzada Farhan 22, Mohammad Nawaz 21; Chris Jordan 1-24)