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[Watch] 'We Are...' : Babar Azam Talks About His Fight With Shaheen Shah Afridi

image-ln03y3uhBabar Azam at the press conference before leaving for the ODI World Cup in India (Twitter)

As the cricketing world gears up for the highly anticipated ICC World Cup 2023 in India, Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, addressed the media during a pre-departure press conference to put to rest the rumours surrounding a supposed rift with star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. 

The press conference, held just weeks before the tournament's commencement, was an opportunity for Azam to quash the speculations and offer insights into the team's preparations and aspirations.

Watch the video here:


Reports had surfaced in the local media, alleging a heated exchange between Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi during a team meeting following Pakistan's unexpected exit from the Asia Cup 2023. These rumors had raised concerns about the unity and harmony within the team, but Azam was quick to dispel such notions.

Babar Azam on Fight Rumors With Shaheen Shah Afridi

"Everyone respects each other in the team, it was a normal meeting but was portrayed as if we had a fight. There was no such thing as we love each other like a family."

This statement reaffirmed the camaraderie that exists within the Pakistan cricket team, emphasizing that any differences or disagreements among teammates are part and parcel of competitive sports and are not indicative of lasting animosity.

Azam also shared his thoughts on the impending clash with arch-rivals India, a match that invariably carries immense significance and excitement for fans and players alike. He expressed his eagerness to play in the colossal Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the largest cricket stadium in the world, where emotions and stakes run sky-high during India-Pakistan encounters.

"I'm very excited to play in Ahmedabad. It is the biggest stadium in the world and will be jam-packed for the India-Pakistan clash. I will try to perform to the best of my ability. I can't exactly tell you how I will do since I'm not an astrologer."

Azam's humility and focus on the team's performance rather than individual achievements were evident in his remarks. He stressed the importance of performing in a manner that benefits the team, reiterating his commitment to the collective success of Pakistan.

Despite facing criticism regarding the team's selection for the World Cup, Azam expressed his unwavering trust in his squad. He pointed out that these are the same players who played a pivotal role in elevating Pakistan to the number one spot in the rankings and affirmed his confidence in their commitment to the team's cause.

Pakistan squad for ICC World Cup 2023

Babar Azam (c), Abdullah Shafique, Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Iftikhar Ahmed, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, M Wasim Jnr, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Saud Shakeel, Salman Ali Agha.

Travelling reserves: Mohammad Haris, Abrar Ahmed, Zaman Khan