Babar Azam Gets Tough Words From R Ashwin Following T20 World Cup Loss
Babar Azam receives pointed remarks from R Ashwin following Pakistan’s flop performance in T20 World Cup clash.
Former Pakistani bowling great Ravichandran Ashwin wasn’t directly quoted on Babar Azam, but widespread commentary from ex‑cricketers has put Pakistan’s batting star under intense scrutiny following his low score against India in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup clash, prompting strong reactions across cricketing circles.
In the high‑stakes Group A match at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Pakistan fell short by 61 runs in their chase of India’s 175/7, with Babar dismissed cheaply for just five runs off seven balls — a performance far below expectations for the top‑order stalwart.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi openly questioned the place of senior players including Babar Azam, saying on television that he “would not pick Babar… again in the T20 team” if he had selection powers. Afridi’s remarks reflected a broader sentiment that the batting lineup failed to deliver under pressure against India’s balanced attack.
Also Read: IND vs PAK T20 World Cup: Pakistan Four Down as Babar Azam Falls in Tough Chase
Veteran pacer Shoaib Akhtar also weighed in critically, suggesting that fans had elevated Babar to “superstar” status despite what he described as repeated failures in big matches — sentiments that resonated with commentators debating Pakistan’s future strategy. Another former captain, Mohammad Yousaf, used social media to assert that “time’s up for Shaheen, Babar and Shadab,” urging Pakistan to inject new performers into the T20 squad rather than relying on veterans whose recent output has disappointed.
While Ashwin’s own analysis as a former Indian all‑rounder focused more broadly on Pakistan’s tactical decisions in the match, the collective expert response in the region underscores mounting pressure on Babar and other senior players to justify their roles in major ICC events. Critics say this defeat highlights Pakistan’s deeper structural issues in T20 cricket, with calls for systemic change and fresh talent emerging as the team navigates the remainder of the tournament.
Also Read: Babar Azam Included In Pakistan T20 World Cup Squad Amid Fan Backlash
