"Please don't promote such things which are haram."
Wasim Akram has caused controversy by joining India-based betting platform Baji as a brand ambassador.
The appointment has raised concerns due to the legal and ethical implications of such promotions in Pakistan.
Pakistan has a strict ban on surrogate advertising for betting companies.
Wasim took to social media to share a video for the betting site.
It featured commentary from some of his matches and a room full of his cricket honours.
In the video, he asks: “Do you know what’s bigger than wearing your national jersey for the first time?”
Wasim captioned the post: “Join me at Baji for some serious fun and excitement.
“Let’s enjoy the thrill and make lasting memories together! Can’t wait to share this journey with you! Win like a King!”
In another post, Wasim hinted at his long-standing involvement in the sports world, stating:
“I’ve had many unforgettable moments in cricket, but the real achievement is creating something that lasts.
“Join me… and be part of the journey.”
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Wasim Akram’s brand ambassador role sparked outrage among netizens, with one writing:
“Is this an ad for a betting app? If it’s then very disappointed in you Wasim.
“Please don’t promote such things which are haram.”
Another said: “People are being destroyed through gambling.”
A third added: “Shame on you.”
One disappointed person wrote: “In Pakistan, many people are so fixated on shortcuts to make money that they’ve lost their fortunes, leading to increased frustration and even a rise in suicides.
“And you, as a prominent figure in the country, and you are promoting these betting apps?
“That’s deeply disappointing. As the saying goes, a better is always a loser.
Some were particularly shocked at Wasim’s decision to join a betting app that also has Mia Khalifa as a brand ambassador, with one making fun of the former cricketer:
“What is hashtag BJ, BJ with Mia Khalifa.”
In April 2024, Mia raised eyebrows when she announced she had become a “BJ ambassador”.
Given her past porn career, fans wondered if it was a raunchy partnership.
But that was not the case as Mia revealed:
“Finally get to announce I’m the latest brand ambassador for Baji Group! @BjGroup.OFC.”
As well as Wasim Akram and Mia Khalifa, Baji also has Kevin Pietersen and former Argentinian footballer Gabriel Batistuta.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting reaffirmed its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy toward surrogate companies associated with betting houses, urging stakeholders to prevent any promotion of these entities through advertisements during live sports coverage.
The ministry also warned all relevant departments, media houses, and companies, prohibiting any agreements with such entities.
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