As Pakistan navigates leadership challenges and player form issues, several key voices from within the cricketing fraternity have stepped forward in defense of senior players. The ongoing HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 has added urgency to these discussions, as performance and public scrutiny intensify.
Hasan Ali Defends Babar Azam
Karachi Kings vice-captain Hasan Ali stood firmly by former Pakistan skipper Babar Azam during a post-match press conference. Facing criticism over his poor form in PSL 10, Babar has scored only one run in two innings. However, Hasan reminded critics of Babar’s stature:
“Babar is our best player, and he will bounce back. We made Babar the king, and we are also bringing him down.”
He also addressed toxic criticism, especially on social media, urging fans to remain respectful and focused on constructive feedback.
Umar Akmal Shuts Down Criticism
Echoing similar sentiments, Umar Akmal passionately defended Babar on a podcast hosted by Ahmed Ali Butt. When another guest suggested Babar no longer deserved a place in the national squad, Umar snapped:
“Babar was Pakistan’s captain for five years. If he’s in a bad patch, you can’t talk like this.”
Umar emphasized that even legends go through lean phases and urged fans and analysts alike to support rather than degrade a player of Babar’s caliber.
Iftikhar Ahmed Backs Rizwan as ODI Captain
On the leadership front, Iftikhar Ahmed has publicly supported Mohammad Rizwan to retain his role as Pakistan’s ODI captain despite recent setbacks in the ICC Champions Trophy and the New Zealand tour.
“Rizwan is the best option available, not because we’re teammates, but because of his performance.”
Rizwan’s consistent success with Multan Sultans, including four consecutive PSL final appearances and a title win in 2021, lends credibility to Iftikhar’s argument. However, questions remain due to Pakistan’s underwhelming international results under his captaincy.
Uncertain Road Ahead
With Salman Ali Agha leading the T20 side and multiple names in the captaincy mix, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faces pressure to make a strategic and timely decision. Amid the noise, endorsements from senior players signal strong dressing room backing for both Babar and Rizwan.
As PSL 10 unfolds, all eyes remain on the players’ performances — because in Pakistan cricket, form often writes the final verdict.
