'Whenever Match Is Close & We Lose...', Babar Azam Opens Up On Fight With Shaheen Afridi - Watch
Despite recent controversy and hurdles, Babar Azam is optimistic about the team's chances at the ICC World Cup 2023.
Following Pakistan’s sad 2023 Asia Cup departure, there were reports circulating about a falling out between Captain Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. But now that he has spoken up, Babar Azam has clarified the situation and emphasised the team's unity as they get ready for the 2023 ICC World Cup.
The Asia Cup Fallout
Both supporters and analysts were shocked by Pakistan's elimination from the Asia Cup. Being the best ODI team in the world, the team was unable to match Sri Lanka's strength, which raised rumours of discord among the players.
There were rumours that Babar Azam had addressed underperforming players during a team meeting, warning them that their star power would not keep them from failing if they didn't improve.
A Heated Exchange
This purported disagreement was centred on a conversation between Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam. The gifted pacer Shaheen Afridi questioned Babar's judgement and urged him to recognise the hard work of others who had done well.
In response, Babar defended his position and claimed to be aware of player performances. As the altercation worsened, Mohammad Rizwan and the team's support personnel had to step in.
Everyone is treated with respect. You know, when we lose a close match, it's exactly like any other meeting, yet occasionally it's reported as though we got into a brawl. Such should not be the case. Everyone should continue to be treated with respect.
Before departing for India for the 2023 ODI World Cup, Babar stated at a news conference, "We love each other as much as we love our family."
Babar Azam Corrects the Record
Babar Azam categorically refuted the rumours during a pre-departure press conference in front of the ICC World Cup 2023, saying, "There's nothing like this. We still regard each other with the same level of decency.
We adore one another as a family." Disagreements, Babar underlined, were normal in the game and frequently misinterpreted.
No Top 4! We are coming for No. 1 In Shaa Allah! World Cup humara hay. Look at the confidence from Babar Azam ❤️❤️#CWC23 #WorldCup2023 pic.twitter.com/XZRE200Pgu
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) September 26, 2023
Naseem Shah's Absence
Along with Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah had developed a deadly bowling tandem. Babar Azam also appreciated Shaheen Shah's absence. He apologised for Naseem's injury-related absence from the World Cup. The squad decided to replace him with Hasan Ali, citing his expertise as the decisive factor.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
Even with the current controversies and difficulties, Babar Azam is optimistic about the team's chances of winning the ICC World Cup in 2023. He emphasised the value of sticking together and supporting players who are having difficulty, expressing confidence in Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz despite their criticism during the Asia Cup. Babar Azam is concentrating on the next competition, where he wants to help Pakistan win.