Pakistan Television said on Thursday that anchorperson Dr. Nauman Niaz and former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar will be taken “off air” until an inquiry committee formed to investigate the heated exchange between the two completed its inquiry.
In a statement shared on Twitter, the state broadcaster said that the inquiry was underway. “It has been decided that Niaz and Akhtar will be taken off air until the inquiry is completed,” the statement said.
It added that neither of the two will be allowed to participate in any PTV programme until the inquiry is completed and all the facts become clear.
Reacting to the announcement, Akhtar said: “Well that’s hilarious. I resigned in front of 220 million Pakistanis and billions across the world. Is PTV crazy or what? Who are they to off air me?”
Earlier today, the former fast bowler had refused to appear before the inquiry committee formed to investigate the incident which took place during a live telecast on PTV Sports two days ago.
Speaking to DawnNews, Akhtar said, “Whatever happened is out there for everyone to see. [The committee] can make the decision after watching the videos [of the show].”
The episode had caused an uproar on social media with politicians, journalists and mediapersons coming to the former cricketer’s defence and criticising Niaz for his behaviour.
