Fashion designer and actor Masaba Gupta has criticized former Pakistan cricketer Ramiz Raja for laughing at a racist comment made about her parents, West Indies legend Vivian Richards and veteran actor Neena Gupta. Masaba expressed her disappointment with Raja’s lack of grace after a video clip from a Pakistani TV news channel resurfaced on social media. In the video, Raja can be seen sniggering at a comic’s objectionable remarks about Richards and Gupta’s relationship. The incident occurred during an episode of a cricket-based news show that aired during the Asia Cup 2023 on September 12.
Masaba took to Twitter to address Raja, stating, “Dear Ramiz Raja (sir), grace is a quality few have. My father, mother, and I have it in spades. You have none. Sickening to see you laugh on national TV in Pakistan at something the world stopped laughing at about 30 years back. Step into the future. All 3 of us are here with our chin up. #ramizraja.”
Raja, who previously served as the Pakistan Cricket Board chief, faced criticism for his behavior on the show. Masaba’s response shed light on the inappropriate nature of the remarks and highlighted the need for respect and progress in society.
In another incident, Ramiz Raja criticized the Pakistani bowlers and the country’s cricket board following the team’s disappointing performance in the ODI World Cup 2023. Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-finals, finishing fifth in the points table after the league stage. Raja did not hold back in his criticism of the bowlers and the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Raja questioned the effectiveness of the bowlers and expressed his frustration with the board’s decision-making process. He also condemned the leaking of messages between Zaka Ashraf and Babar, emphasizing the importance of passion for the game and the need for a change in mindset.
The former captain also criticized the appointment of the new chief selector, highlighting the individual’s age and lack of knowledge about selection. Raja called for the improvement of Pakistan cricket and urged the board to make better decisions.
In conclusion, Masaba Gupta called out Ramiz Raja for laughing at a racist comment directed towards her parents, while Raja criticized the Pakistani bowlers and the cricket board. Both incidents highlight the need for respect, progress, and improvement in the cricketing community.
