[Watch] When Shoaib Akhtar Bashed Azam Khan's Father Moin Khan Over Fitness Comment
Shoaib Akhtar had an argument with Moin Khan back in 2019 (x.com)
Pakistan cricket has often been full of crises and chaos over the years. Almost every ICC event brings conflicts between players, management, and former players.
The 2024 ICC T20 World Cup is no different, with lots of drama. There was the reappointment of Babar Azam as captain, the removal of Shaheen Afridi from captaincy, and the return of Mohammad Amir and Imad Wasim to the team.
Additionally, issues with Azam Khan's fitness, Mohammad Rizwan's captaincy ambitions, and losses to the USA and India added to the drama for Pakistan in the tournament. Once again, it's been a rollercoaster for Pakistan cricket fans.
Azam not first Pakistani to face fitness related criticism
Azam Khan, is the son of Moin Khan, who was bullied for his fitness during ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Five years ago, during the 2019 ODI World Cup, another Pakistan wicketkeeper was heavily criticised.
It was Sarfraz Ahmed, the then Pakistan captain and wicket keeper. Shoaib Akhtar criticised Sarfraz for his fitness after the loss against West Indies in their first game. However, Moin Khan supported Sarfraz and questioned Akhtar's fitness, asking Akhtar to look at himself.
Shoaib Akhtar took the criticism from Moin Khan personally and responded brutally.
Watch: Akhtar brutally trolling Azam Khan's father
In his reply video, Shoaib Akhtar told Moin Khan that despite his fitness, he had won many games for Pakistan with his 450 international wickets.
He took a dig at Moin Khan's captaincy, stating that to take 450 wickets, one should play under legendary captains like Imran Khan, not someone like Moin Khan.
Pakistan cricket has always been mired in controversies. Recently, Younis Khan accused Shahid Afridi of double standards, and Ahmed Shehzad criticized Babar Azam's captaincy and alleged politics in dressing room.
When legends lack unity, it's difficult for current players to look up to them as role models. This has been a recurring issue for Pakistan cricket.