Ramiz Raja decries ‘hooliganism’ after latest unrest between Afghanistan and Pakistan

Ramiz Raja, the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman, denounced what he termed “hooliganism” after Pakistan’s match against Afghanistan in Sharjah.

Fans clashed in the North-West Stand at the end of Asia Cup match on Wednesday night, with some tearing seats up from their fixings and hurling them at rival supporters.

“Hooliganism is unacceptable in cricket,” said Raja, the former Pakistan player turned board chairman.

“This game doesn’t want such an environment where fans and players feel unsafe.

“This wasn't the first time such a thing happened. We care about our fans and we will take a strong stance in ICC.

“Initially, we will write a letter to ICC while highlighting the whole scenario.”

The trouble took place after Pakistan had sealed a thrilling win that sent them through to Sunday’s final and ended Afghanistan’s chances.

In the emotional conclusion to the match, which saw Pakistan tailender Naseem Shah hit sixes in successive balls to win it, tempers were frayed.

At one point Asif Ali, the Pakistan batter, had to be separated from Fareed Ahmad, the Afghanistan bowler who had just dismissed him.

The two players went head to head in the middle of the field, and Asif raised his bat towards Fareed before Afghan fielders interjected and Asif headed to the pavilion.

When Pakistan sealed the win shortly after, their players raced onto the field to celebrate with Naseem. The result then prompted angry scenes in the stands.

Until that point, the crowd had played their part in what had been regarded as one of the greatest matches played in the UAE.

Before the footage of the violence became apparent, Afghanistan’s captain Mohammed Nabi had commended his side’s supporters.

Asif Ali and Fareed Ahmed is today’s motif, with the legend