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The ICC ODI World Cup 2023 has not been kind to Pakistan, with the team enduring a string of losses, leaving their hopes of advancing to the semi-finals in jeopardy. Following consecutive defeats to India, Australia, Afghanistan and South Africa, the Men in Green are teetering on the edge of elimination. This run of poor form has provoked frustration among fans and experts alike, with many questioning the team’s performance and leadership, particularly that of captain Babar Azam.
Mohammad Hafeez delivers a stinging criticism of Babar Azam
Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez did not mince words when addressing Pakistan’s dismal showing in the tournament. He expressed his concern about the team’s prospects in the World Cup, particularly in light of their recent loss to South Africa by a single wicket. In addition to voicing his own frustrations, Hafeez urged fans to refrain from drawing comparisons between Babar and the legendary cricketers of the past. He emphasized that the current Pakistani skipper still has much to prove and achieve before he can be regarded as one of the greats of the game.
“As a player, Babar Azam has performed quite well. It is unfortunate that people expect a lot from him and compare him with others. He is a very, very good player. He is the best player in Pakistan currently,” Hafeez was quoted as saying by the Hindustan Times.
“However, it is unfair for Babar when he is compared to the greats. I have my reservations when he is touted as a great Pakistani player. People who call Babar a great have not seen the real greats of the game. He is not great yet. He has to prove a lot,” the 43-year-old added.
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Babar’s leadership under scrutiny
One of the key points of contention raised by Hafeez was Babar’s role as a leader. Hafeez noted that the 29-year-old right-handed batter has not demonstrated significant improvement in his capacity as a captain. He urged Babar to consider his ability to handle the additional pressures and responsibilities that come with leadership. Hafeez went further to recommend that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) engage in a discussion with Babar regarding his future as captain.
“Babar has shown no growth as captain. There should have been some maturity and tactical improvement in the past three years. Now Babar himself, or the PCB, should need to make a decision regarding his future. They need to decide if the pressure of captaincy should be relieved so that Babar can shine, or if Babar can shine despite having the additional pressure,” the Sargodha-born cricketer concluded.
Pakistan’s upcoming challenge against Bangladesh
As Pakistan gears up for a crucial match against Bangladesh, scheduled to take place at the iconic Gardens in Kolkata on Tuesday (October 31), the team finds itself at a crossroads in the tournament. They must address their issues and work together to salvage their World Cup campaign.
