By Swapneel Deshpande 28 May 2024, 11:55 IST
In an unexpected turn of events, Pakistan’s white-ball captain Babar Azam was seen visibly angry and scolding a group of fans ahead of the third T20I against England at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff. The incident, captured on video by one of the fans, quickly went viral, showcasing a rare moment of frustration from the typically calm and composed cricketer.
Babar Azam was enjoying some leisure time with his teammates, engaging in conversations and unwinding before the crucial match. However, a group of enthusiastic fans interrupted him, seeking selfies and autographs. The fans’ overzealous approach seemed to irritate Babar, who urged them to maintain distance and respect personal space. His reaction, “Upar mat chadho,” (Don’t climb over me) highlighted his frustration.
After the initial outburst, Babar approached the fans to explain his reaction, attempting to diffuse the situation. Despite his efforts, the video had already made rounds on social media, drawing mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. Some understood his need for personal space, especially in a high-pressure environment, while others were surprised by his uncharacteristic display of anger.
Since taking over the captaincy from Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam has faced a challenging tenure. Pakistan has had a mixed performance under his leadership, losing four out of nine T20Is, including an unexpected loss to Ireland. The current series against England has been tough, with the first T20I abandoned due to rain and Pakistan losing the second match by 23 runs at Edgbaston.
With the series on the line, Pakistan is set to face England in the third T20I at Sophia Gardens tonight. Babar Azam’s leadership and performance will be under scrutiny as the team aims to bounce back and secure a victory. Speculations are rife about possible changes in the playing XI, with reports suggesting that Shadab Khan and Saim Ayub might be dropped for this crucial encounter.
The incident has sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with fans and analysts weighing in on Babar’s behavior. Many empathize with the pressure and expectations that come with being a high-profile athlete, while others believe he should maintain composure in public interactions. This incident has added another layer of intrigue to the ongoing series and Babar Azam’s leadership journey.
As Pakistan prepares for the third T20I, all eyes will be on Babar Azam not only for his performance on the field but also on how he handles the added pressure off the field. His ability to lead by example and manage public interactions will be crucial in shaping his legacy as a captain.
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