Nasser Hussain talks about the time when called 'traitor', playing against Asian country

Former England captain and Sky Sports commentator and analyst, Nasser Hussain, in his recent article, elaborated about the time he was heckled by the British Asian community, during his playing days, whenever his side used to play against India or Pakistan. Hussain took the example of Moeen Ali to exhibit that the nation has come a long way to respect Islamic faith.

After the conclusion of the presentation ceremony, the entire England squad posed with the Basil D’Oliveira Trophy. Former England captain Alastair Cook recalled Man of Series Moeen Ali for the mandatory pictures and celebrations, assuring that there would be no alcohol involved during the jollification. Nasser Hussain took this instance in detail and explained how this move from Cook impressed him.

“I don’t think I have ever been so proud as when I watched them after their fourth Test success. That pride came when Alastair Cook led the way in making sure Moeen Ali was included in all the celebrations and pictures before the man of the series moved to one side to let his team-mates spray the obligatory champagne everywhere,” wrote Nasser Hussain for his column at Daily Mail.

Ali is an important figure in the UK: Hussain

“It was clear the rest of the squad appreciated everything Moeen stands for, not just as an outstanding cricketer but also as a man of Islamic faith who has become such an important sporting figure in our country,” further augmented the 49-year-old.

“It is a sign, in many ways, of how far we have come. With everything that is going on in the world, the cheer Moeen gets from cricket fans of all backgrounds shows how popular he is and how well he copes with being a role model. Lots of British Asians must want to be Moeen Ali now,” added Hussain while elaborating the acceptance and tolerance of the nation. “When I played against India or Pakistan in this country, there would be British Asians calling me a traitor,” concluded Hussain.