Babar Azam was notably absent from Pakistan’s training ahead of the crucial Champions Trophy match against India, leading to speculation about his availability. Despite criticism of his performance in a previous game against New Zealand, where he scored 64 runs, he chose to rest, leaving PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi urging the team to win “at any cost” to counter critics. The team, facing possible elimination if they lose to India, had a brief practice session, during which Naqvi addressed players and staff to emphasize team readiness and morale, particularly concerning India’s reluctance to play in Pakistan due to security concerns.
Babar Azam, Pakistan’s star batter, was noticeably absent from the team’s training sessions, leaving uncertainty around his participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy match against India on Sunday. Pakistan’s cricket board chief, Mohsin Naqvi, has urged the team to secure a victory “at any cost.” Rumors are swirling that Azam might be sidelined for the match following his absence from Saturday evening’s practice session, where only he opted to take the day off, despite the presence of PCB chief Naqvi.
Azam faced significant criticism for his 64 runs off 94 balls during the 60-run defeat to New Zealand in the tournament’s opening match, as he struggled to increase the scoring rate while chasing a total of 320 runs in Karachi.
Aqib Javed, the interim head coach, addressed the media following practice but did not specify the reason for Azam’s absence, indicating that the former captain chose to rest.
Last night, Naqvi met the Pakistan cricket team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, encouraging them to win the vital match against India “at any cost” in order to silence their detractors. A loss in this game would eliminate Pakistan from the tournament.
The practice session was planned for two hours but was cut short to one hour as Naqvi evaluated the situation, met with captain Mohammad Rizwan and head coach Aqib Javed, and discussed pertinent cricket matters with them.
Reliable sources have informed PTI that Naqvi urged the captain, coach, and players to give their maximum effort against India and secure a victory to “silence their critics, including himself.” He was also seen engaging in a lengthy discussion with fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf.
Naqvi, reportedly dissatisfied with the team selection, made an effort to connect with each player, coach, and support staff member.
Afterward, Naqvi told the media that the Pakistani team was prepared to take on India and perform well.
“It will be a thrilling match and our team is fully prepared; in my view, they are in form. We stand by our team, whether they win or lose,” he stated.
When questioned about Pakistan playing India on their home turf of the Champions Trophy, he humorously responded: “You should ask the Indians how they would feel if the same situation occurred to them?” India had declined to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns and is currently playing their Champions Trophy matches in Dubai. If India progresses to the final, that match will also take place in Dubai.
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