A Pakistan international, Irfan Khan Niazi, recently became the centre of a brief but entertaining roadside incident after being pulled over by traffic police for allegedly failing to wear a seat belt. The stop quickly turned from routine enforcement into a friendly chat as the officer engaged the cricketer in a light-hearted conversation about safety and cricket.
Police officials said the driver was intercepted and the officer asked him, “Have you fastened your seat belt?” When Niazi appeared unsure, the policeman clarified that the lapse meant he could be fined. As the exchange continued, the interaction grew more relaxed, with the officer asking about his name and team, and Niazi responding that he plays for Hyderabad.
With the formalities over, the conversation soon shifted to cricket. The traffic policeman recalled moments from the Pakistan Super League, where Niazi recently featured for Hyderabad Kingsmen in the final against Peshawar Zalmi, a side captained by Babar Azam. The officer also complimented the cricketer, saying he is “an asset to our community,” while emphasising that wearing a seat belt remains crucial for personal safety.
There was also some playful banter during the stop, including jokes about six-hitting and the kind of money players can earn for big hits. The policeman even joked that Niazi was facing a “small fine of PKR 5000” before sending him on his way.
Before letting him go, the officer reiterated the importance of always fastening the seat belt and encouraging others to follow traffic rules. Niazi responded with a smile, and the interaction ended with the cricketer buckling up and driving off.
Internationally, Irfan Khan Niazi made his Pakistan debut in 2024. He has played nine ODIs and 14 T20Is so far for the national team.
