Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram is facing criticism on social media over his actions during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
The former fast bowler, popularly known as the “Sultan of Swing,” is currently in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj. A video of Akram performing the ritual of Rami at Jamarat, where pilgrims symbolically stone the devil by throwing pebbles, has gone viral online.
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In the video, Akram can be seen throwing pebbles in his trademark bowling style and later celebrating in a playful manner, resembling his on-field cricket celebrations.
The clip sparked mixed reactions from social media users. While some found the moment lighthearted, many netizens criticized the former cricketer, saying Hajj is an act of worship and should be observed with seriousness and respect rather than treated as entertainment.
It should be noted that Rami (Stoning of the Devil) is a mandatory Hajj ritual where pilgrims throw pebbles at three stone walls (Jamarat) in Mina. It symbolizes the rejection of evil and commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (PBUH) defiance of Satan.
Here’s how social media reacted:
