The center of attention is now on PTV (Pakistan Television) as he decides how to contain the aftermath of the unfortunate incident in which the presenter, Dr. Nauman Niaz, insulted former test cricketer Shoaib Akhtar to the point of that the latter felt compelled to leave the set during a live program. The decision of the management to form a committee has no purpose, except the optics, since everything is as clear as it can be. However, now that this issue has come to the fore, and a flood of support has emerged for the much-celebrated Rawalpindi Express, it turns out that there is more to the anchor than meets the eye.
His rude attitude towards his colleagues apparently caused him to be unceremoniously expelled from the national broadcaster, but somehow he was able to exert enough influence to not only make his way back to PTV, but also occupy more than one high-level position in the organization. And since the institution is taking its time to make a decision, as always, it is natural for the rumor mill to accelerate; and some say that this man is able to maintain his position in the television channel, despite the controversies that surround him, thanks to his influential father.
It remains to be seen whether such allegations are true or not; and hopefully everything clears up sooner rather than later. But this unfortunate episode should also serve as a lesson for all Pakistanis. Why has public discourse in this country, be it about politics or sports, become so toxic? And why can't we respect our heroes? Everyone knows that Shoaib stood out throughout his career for his fast and accurate bowling, which earned Pakistan many, many laurels around the world. But very few people know the demons he had to fight to get to that position. Often when the team was warming up before the big games, Shoaib would be with the doctors and they would draw blood and water from his knees with painful syringes.
After all, that's the price of greatness. And the last thing he deserved was a host who insulted him, especially when the likes of Sir Vivian Richards and David Gower honored not only the show but the country with their presence. Actions have consequences; and Dr. Nauman should now face the music. *
