Pakistani presenter Zainab Abbas, who was a part of the ICC digital team covering the Cricket World Cup 2023, has broken her silence regarding her departure from India amid a social media backlash over her alleged anti-India posts.
In a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter), Zainab shared her perspective on the situation: "I have always felt extremely fortunate and grateful for the opportunities to travel and present the sport I love - this one would have been extra special."
Zainab also clarified that neither was she deported nor was she asked to leave India. She stated, "I was neither asked to leave nor was I deported. However, I felt intimidated and scared by the reaction that was unfolding online. And even though there was no immediate threat to my safety, my family and friends from both sides of the border were concerned. I needed some space and time to reflect on what had transpired."
She also expressed her understanding of the hurt caused by the posts that had circulated and offered a sincere apology: "I understand and deeply regret the hurt caused by the posts that were circulated. I wish to make clear that they do not represent my values or who I am as a person today. There is no excuse or space for such language, and I sincerely apologise to anyone who was offended."
Zainab left India from Hyderabad, where she was assigned to cover Pakistan's three Cricket World Cup games. Her unverified X posts had gone viral after she announced her participation in the ICC event in India.
The International Cricket Council clarified that Zainab was not deported but had left for personal reasons. She was initially in Hyderabad and was scheduled to travel to cities where Pakistan was set to play, including Bengaluru, Chennai, and Ahmedabad.