Nicholas Pooran comes under scanner for dubious act with ball during third ODI vs Afghanistan

Talented West Indies wicket-keeper-batsman Nicholas Pooran is known for his consistent scoring. In a team which has otherwise struggled to live up to its fans’ expectations, the 24-year-old has done well, especially with the bat. The Trinidadian slammed a 50-ball 67 against Afghanistan in the second ODI of the series the West Indies are playing against the Asians in India at the moment. He bagged the Man of the Match award courtesy his match-winning show

The knock not only helped the Caribbeans win by 47 runs but also bag their first 50-over series since 2014. However, Pooran soon started making the headlines for the wrong reasons. He could land in trouble if the video, which features him and doing the rounds on the internet, is investigated by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Nicholas Pooran is seen rubbing the ball on thigh back

In the video, the West Indian cricketer is seen doing something suspicious. He is found scratching the ball and touching its seam during the third game against Afghanistan on Monday. The cricketer, who is not keeping in the series, was rubbing the ball on the back of his thigh. In the past, a number of cricketers have faced the music for ill-treating the ball through various means.

Last year, two top Australian cricketers in Steve Smith and David Warner along with a newcomer, Cameron Bancroft, was banned on the charges of tampering the red cherry during a Test match at the Newlands in South Africa. The issue had a profound impact on Australian cricket. The ICC was yet to issue a statement on Pooran’s act.

Afghanistan, who haven’t won any of their last 10 ODIs (they lost all eight fixtures in the World Cup), failed to impress in the current series so far under their new captain Rashid Khan. They lost the first match by seven wickets and the second one by 47 runs. In the third match, the West Indies won the toss and sent them to bat and riding former captain Asghar Afghan’s 85-ball 86, the Asian side posted 249 for 7 in 50 overs. They were in a spot of bother at one stage at 118 for 5 but the lower order gave Afghan a good support to see them reaching a decent total in the end. Pacer Keemo Paul took 3 for 44.

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