1 year ago
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NEW DELHI: Former India cricketer
Ashok Malhotra
issued an apology on Wednesday for his derogatory comments, where he referred to the Assam players of his time as "second-class citizens."
His remarks came in the aftermath of Bengal's unexpected loss to Assam in the Syed
Mushtaq Ali Trophy
pre-quarterfinals on Tuesday in Mohali.
Malhotra, who had a stint coaching Bengal after his playing career, expressed regret for his on-air statement, admitting, "Humare zamane mein Assam ke team ko second-class citizens mana jata thaa" (During my playing days, the Assam team was considered second-class citizens).
He acknowledged his insensitive comments, recognising the inappropriateness and the offense caused by his words.
A day later, Malhotra, who played seven Tests and 20 ODIs for the country, issued an unconditional apology on X following an uproar, saying, "I apologise profusely if I have hurt Assam people's sentiments with my comments during the Assam v Bengal game last evening.
"I am sorry. It was totally unintentional and was trying to speak about their progress. I regret it and give an unconditional apology."
Riyan Parag creates flutter
Meanwhile, in the match Assam captain Riyan Parag had notched up his seventh consecutive half-century as his team thrashed Bengal by eight wickets to qualify for the SMAT quarterfinals.
After the game, a video of Parag gesturing towards the commentary box has gone viral on social media. Parag had smashed an unbeaten 31-ball 50.
With his gesture, Parag is understood to be conveying that the Assam team today is superior to their Bengal counterparts.
Assam were powered by an all-round show by Parag, who had earlier returned with figures of 4-0-23-2 with the ball.
Akash Sengupta
's 3/29 also played a part in restricting Bengal to a modest 138/8 in their 20 overs.
Invited to bat, a few Bengal batters got starts but failed to convert them into big knocks.
Assam completed the chase in 17.5 overs for the loss of two wickets.
(With PTI inputs)
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