In a pointed critique aired on live television, former Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Akhtar referred to Babar Azam as a "fraud." Concurrently, seasoned all-rounder Mohammed Hafeez urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to release the star batsman following yet another lackluster performance. These remarks followed Pakistan's six-wicket defeat to India on Sunday in Dubai, which placed them on the verge of elimination from the group stage of the 2025 Champions Trophy.

Initially hailed as a future star in international cricket and often compared to Virat Kohli, Babar Azam had set numerous batting records early in his career, leading many to believe he was destined for greatness. However, with increasing expectations, the 31-year-old has faltered. In the recent match against India, Babar managed only 23 runs off 26 balls, marking Pakistan's second consecutive loss in the Champions Trophy. Although he scored a fifty in the opening match against New Zealand in Karachi, his slow batting style drew significant criticism.

"We frequently draw comparisons between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli. Now, consider who Virat Kohli looks up to as a hero. Sachin Tendulkar has amassed 100 centuries, and Virat is pursuing that legacy," Akhtar stated during the program 'Game On Hai.' “Who does Babar Azam regard as his hero? Tuk tuk (without naming any cricketer). You have chosen the wrong heroes. Your mindset is flawed. You have been a fraud from the outset.”

'Babar Azam is not Inzamam-ul-Haq'

In a similar vein, Hafeez, who was part of the discussion panel, raised concerns regarding Babar's performance in crucial matches. He emphasized that a player earns the title of a champion through memorable performances in significant games. While he acknowledged Babar as a "good" player, he conceded that the 31-year-old has not been able to lead Pakistan to victory in any series within SENA countries on his own.

"Babar Azam is not the ultimate king; that title belongs to Virat Kohli. His performances speak for themselves, showcasing dominance across the globe. We must look beyond public relations narratives. What we need is a true performer. Babar Azam is a commendable talent, but can you point to a single player-of-the-match performance he has had against India? We often recall Shoaib Akhtar's impactful performances against India, and Younis Khan is revered for his contributions in India-Pakistan matches. Shoaib Malik has also delivered significant performances against India," he stated.

"Can you name one standout performance by Babar Azam, the best Pakistani talent of the last decade, against India? Babar Azam is not Inzamam-ul-Haq. Inzi bhai was known for securing victories for Pakistan under challenging circumstances. To date, Babar Azam has not won a single match against India. Despite playing for the last ten years, he has never been named player of the series in SENA countries. He has not led Pakistan to triumph in Australia or England."

Consequently, Hafeez delivered a straightforward message to the PCB and the selection committee, urging them to consider moving on from Babar and to invest in new talent.

"We must reflect on the situation. It is essential to recognize that those we are relying on are not delivering results, and we should transition to players who are eager for opportunities within the system," he concluded.

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