Pakistan Legend Resigned After Proposing Babar Azam Be Dropped
Former Pakistan cricketer says backlash over Babar Azam remark forced his resignation.
A former Pakistan cricketer has made a candid revelation about internal tensions within the national team setup, claiming he was forced to resign after suggesting that star batter Babar Azam be dropped from the playing XI during a lean patch.
Speaking in a recent interview, the Pakistan great said his recommendation to rest Babar Azam was based purely on form and team balance, not personal differences. He argued that even top players go through rough phases and that temporary exclusion from the side can sometimes help them reset mentally and technically. However, he alleged that the suggestion triggered widespread backlash within the cricketing establishment.
“Everyone turned against me,” he said, describing how his remarks were met with resistance from team management and sections of the cricket board. According to him, the situation escalated quickly, creating an environment where he felt isolated. He ultimately stepped down from his role, stating that the pressure and criticism made it untenable to continue.
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Babar Azam, widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s finest modern-day batters, has been a central figure in the team across formats. His leadership tenure and consistent performances have earned him significant support from fans and former players alike. Any discussion about his place in the side, particularly during periods of modest returns, tends to generate strong reactions.
The former cricketer maintained that his stance was rooted in professional judgment rather than controversy. He emphasised that healthy debate and performance-based selection are integral to maintaining standards at the international level. The remarks have once again sparked discussion in Pakistan’s cricket circles about selection policies, player accountability, and the pressures surrounding high-profile stars.
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