Pakistan’s national cricket team finds itself in the midst of criticism and scrutiny following their untimely exit from the Asia Cup’s Super 4 stage earlier this week. After a resounding 228-run defeat to arch-rivals India, the team faced a heartbreaking two-wicket loss against Sri Lanka, resulting in their elimination from the tournament. As the cricketing world dissects the team’s performance and leadership, former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has stepped forward to offer support and perspective.
Babar Azam Faces Criticism Amidst Asia Cup Setbacks
Pakistan’s Asia Cup journey took a disappointing turn with consecutive losses to India and Sri Lanka. The defeat to India was particularly crushing, raising questions about the team’s strategy and execution. In the must-win game against Sri Lanka, Charith Asalanka’s heroic innings proved decisive, adding to Pakistan’s woes.
Captain Babar Azam has faced significant criticism over his leadership and decision-making during the Asia Cup. Some of his choices, especially in the game against India, have come under intense scrutiny. Amidst the mounting pressure and rumours of a dressing room rift, Babar Azam’s leadership abilities have been called into question.
Hafeez’s Defense of Babar Azam
However, former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has come forward to defend Babar Azam against the backlash. Hafeez emphasized that cricket is a team sport, and the responsibility for the defeat cannot be placed solely on the captain’s shoulders. Referring to the heavy loss against India, Hafeez pointed out that neither did Babar have to score the 228 runs nor did he concede them.
Hafeez stated, “228 runs naa toh akele kaptaan ne karne the, naa hi usne akele khaaye (Neither Babar had to score those 228 runs, nor did he concede those runs). The players are responsible for that failure, and the management is responsible.” He further addressed the misconception that recent success justified the loss, stressing that three months of victories do not excuse such a defeat.
Pakistan’s cricket team faces a challenging period as they grapple with the fallout from their Asia Cup exit. Reports of arguments in the dressing room and injuries to key players have added to the turmoil. The team will have an opportunity to regroup and regain confidence during the World Cup warm-up matches, beginning on September 29. Their World Cup campaign officially kicks off on October 6 when they face the Netherlands in the tournament opener.
