After returning from Pakistan, Bangladesh’s young leg-spinner Rishad Hossain made some comments in the media about fellow PSL players like Daryl Mitchell and Tom Curran — and has now issued an apology for them.
Following the suspension of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Rishad, along with Nahid Rana and other foreign cricketers, faced uncertainty over their return home. With several flights canceled, many were stranded temporarily in Pakistan. Eventually, Rishad and others were able to leave safely.
During a layover at Dubai airport, Rishad spoke to Bangladesh’s cricket, sharing what he described as the mental state of some foreign players.
“Honestly, the foreign players like Sam Billings, Daryl Mitchell, Kusal Perera, David Wiese, and our (Lahore Qalandars) teammate Tom Curran… they were so panicked it felt like they just wanted to get out immediately. After landing in Dubai, Daryl Mitchell said, ‘I’m never coming back to Pakistan — not in this kind of situation.’ They were really terrified,” Rishad said.
He also described how Tom Curran had an emotional reaction after initially learning his flight was canceled.
“He went to the airport, and when he found out it was closed and had to come back, he started crying like a little child. It felt like… I mean, two or three people had to calm him down — that’s how shaken he was,” Rishad told reporters.
Such direct and sensitive remarks are unusual from athletes, who typically avoid naming individuals in these contexts. Unsurprisingly, Rishad’s comments sparked debate and criticism.
On Sunday night, Rishad took to social media to clarify his statements and apologize, saying they were exaggerated and misrepresented in the media.
“I understand that one of my recent comments has caused confusion and was unfortunately misrepresented in the media, leading to a misunderstanding,” he wrote.
“I gave this comment during a brief interview with a few Bangladeshi journalists while in transit at Dubai airport. It was shared without full context, unintentionally amplifying the emotions involved.”
He issued a direct apology to Mitchell and Curran and expressed his eagerness to return to the PSL once it resumes.
“I sincerely apologize for any misunderstanding. I have offered my unconditional apologies to Daryl Mitchell and Tom Curran. I hold deep respect for my fellow players and highly value the spirit of the Qalandars family — where we stand by each other through every situation.”
“I look forward to rejoining my team when the Pakistan Super League resumes.”
Before the suspension, Rishad had taken 9 wickets in 5 matches for Lahore Qalandars this PSL season.
