Indian netizens fume over Mohammad Hafeez's picture with Zakir Naik

Former Pakistani cricketer Mohammad Hafeez faced criticism from Indian social media users for sharing a picture with religious preacher Zakir Naik, with many expressing their dipleasure.

Zakir Naik is considered a controversial figure in India, where the government wants him in connection with money laundering cases and accusations of inciting hatred through his speeches.

He is currently on a visit to Pakistan and has been meeting people from various backgrounds in Lahore. Pakistan’s former head coach Mohammad Hafeez also happened to meet him.

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“Pleasure meeting with Zakir Naik,” Hafeez captioned the picture while posing alongside the preacher.

However, Indian trolls became triggered by his post, using it as justification for the Indian cricket team’s refusal to tour Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

“This is one of the reasons why the Indian cricket team and the Indian government do not want to come to Pakistan… He is a fugitive from the Indian police,” an X user said in response to his post.

“No wonder your cricket is going down the drain,” another commented.

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An Indian account replied, "And they say India doesn’t play in Pakistan. When you welcome and cherish a designated terrorist then India will play in Pakistan? Well done Jay Shah not sending Indian team to Pakistan."

This is not the first time Indian trolls have targeted Pakistani cricketers or engaged in propaganda against Pakistan, making numerous claims to justify not visiting their neighboring country.

Several international cricketers have also faced backlash from Indian trolls whenever they commented on India or outperformed the "Men in Blue" on the field.