In a recent social media post, Pakistani cricketer Hassan Ali expressed his deep admiration for his fellow player Sarfaraz Ahmed by drawing a comparison to Bollywood superstar Salman Khan.
Known for his enthusiastic and lively approach to the game, Ali shared a picture of Ahmed dressed in a formal all-black suit. Alongside the image, Ali playfully referred to Ahmed as the “Salman Khan of Karachi,” followed by a laughing emoji. Additionally, he affectionately called Ahmed “my captain.” This reference to the renowned Indian film actor highlights the enormous popularity and respect that Ahmed commands in his hometown.
Salman khan of Karachi 😂 @SarfarazA_54 #Maashallah #merakaptan Handsome pic.twitter.com/2MVteYLji4
— Hassan Ali 🇵🇰 (@RealHa55an) June 4, 2023
Ali’s post struck a chord with passionate cricket fans and supporters of both players, earning praise for his generous words and recognition of Sarfaraz’s significant impact on the game. One Twitter user responded with admiration, calling Sarfaraz the “Captain of hearts.” Another user humorously suggested that Ali should consider a career in hosting alongside Tabish Hashmi, a well-known comedian.
Dillo kaa kaptaan ♥️
— Muhammad Furqan Bhatti (@Furqan013) June 5, 2023
You shouldn't play cricket, you should act as a co-host with Tabish Hashmi😂
— Hanip (@HanifLewanist) June 4, 2023
However, some netizens also trolled Sarfaraz.
when you ordered Salman Khan from @OLX_Pakistan
— Sultan Khan (@MainHoonSultan7) June 5, 2023
Bhai Salman khan to yah banda kisi taraf se nahi lag raha hai, haan pakistan ka shikh chilli zarur lag raha hai.
BTW Yah banda thik hai, cricketer thik hai, bas stump ke peechhe chillata bahut hai.
— Chaudhary Sakhawat (@SakhawatCh0dhri) June 5, 2023
Salman ka agar julaab b ho jaye or wo din me 120 baar b bathroom chala jaye tab b iss jesa nhi hoga
Aesa lag raha hai k jesey salman khan ko barra bukhaar ho gaya hai
Just for joke— saifullah khalid 🇵🇰🇵🇰🇵🇰🏏🏏🏏❤️❤️❤️🥰❤️ (@saifbabar56) June 5, 2023
Sarfaraz is an immensely talented wicketkeeper-batsman and a prominent member of the Pakistani national cricket team, having captained the team in all formats. Currently, he represents the Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League.
One of Ahmed’s standout achievements was leading Pakistan to a remarkable victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, where they triumphed over their arch-rivals India in the final. Additionally, he had previously showcased his leadership abilities by guiding the Pakistan under-19 team to win the 2006 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, defeating India in the final.
Ali, on the other hand, played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s success in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy. His exceptional performance earned him the player of the tournament title, thanks to his thirteen wickets. Ali holds the record for being the fastest Pakistani bowler to reach 50 wickets in ODIs. He was also one of the thirty-three players who received a central contract from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the 2018-19 season.
Beyond their cricketing accomplishments, the bond between Ali and Ahmed extends off the field as well. They have been frequently seen supporting and encouraging each other during matches, displaying a strong sense of camaraderie.