Dubai: Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam, under scrutiny for his recent underwhelming performances, may not feature in today’s high-stakes ICC Champions Trophy clash against India. His absence from Saturday’s crucial training session has fueled speculation about his place in the playing XI.
Ahead of the much-anticipated showdown in Dubai, Azam’s no-show at practice raised eyebrows, especially with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi in attendance. While all other squad members trained, Azam opted to sit out without a clear explanation. Reports suggest he was the only player to do so.
Azam has been facing criticism following his 94-ball 64 during Pakistan’s 60-run loss to New Zealand in the tournament opener. His inability to accelerate during the 320-run chase in Karachi has drawn flak from fans and pundits alike. Addressing the media post-training, Pakistan’s interim head coach Aqib Javed refrained from disclosing specifics, merely stating that Azam had chosen to rest.
On Saturday night, PCB chief Naqvi met the team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, urging them to secure a victory against India “at any cost” to silence their critics. Pakistan faces elimination if they suffer another defeat.
During the shortened training session, Naqvi reportedly engaged in discussions with captain Mohammad Rizwan and coach Aqib Javed, assessing the team’s preparations. He also had extensive conversations with key pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf.
Reliable sources indicate that Naqvi, dissatisfied with team selection, made it a point to interact with every player, coach, and support staff member. Speaking to the media afterward, he expressed confidence in the team’s readiness.
“It will be a great match, and our team is fully prepared. We stand by our players, win or lose,” Naqvi stated.
When asked about Pakistan hosting the Champions Trophy but being forced to play India in Dubai due to security concerns, he responded pointedly: “You should ask the Indians—if they were in our place, how would they have felt?”
With India refusing to travel to Pakistan, all their matches, including a potential final, are being held in Dubai. As the cricketing world eagerly awaits today’s encounter, all eyes remain on Pakistan’s final XI and whether Babar Azam will feature in it.
