Pakistani cricketers Imam-ul-Haq and Ahmed Shehzad got into a heated debate on live television where the latter accused national team captain Babar Azam of favoring the players despite poor form. Appearing on the talk show ‘Haarna Mana Hai!’ (Losing is not an option!), Imam countered allegations made by Ahmed Shehzad about the integrity and decision-making of Babar Azam and the Pakistan Cricket Board. Shehzad argued that Pakistan’s more experienced players also play against weaker opposition, reducing opportunities for younger players. Shehzad – who played 13 Tests and 81 ODIs for Pakistan – even referred to Team India, and how Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma often rest to give youngsters a chance.
The main talking point of the show was around Babar Azam’s captaincy. Babar resigned as captain after Pakistan failed to qualify for the semi-finals of the 2023 Cricket World Cup, handing the reigns to Shaheen Afridi. However, just before the 2024 T20 World Cup, Babar regained the lead.
While Shehzad argued that Shaheen had been unfairly stripped of his captaincy, Imam defended Babar, saying that the board had taken the decision and that Babar had not asked for his captaincy back.
“Babar was removed without his consent and also reinstated without his consent. The board renamed him captain. If we don’t win, this could be a debate. We didn’t click in the final. You can tell Babar likes these players, but calling it friendship is quite personal,” said Imam.
Shehzad, 32, retaliated against 28-year-old Imam-ul-Haq. “We understand that Imam has a central contract, he is young. We said the same thing when we were his age. I’m 34 years old, I’m fed up with things. We want things to get better. 5 years, you do something wrong to those who work at home. Someone takes away your rights,” replied Shehzad.
However, the Imam responded by saying that his opinion would remain the same at all times.
“I have a contract with Central, yes, but I promise you that when I am 36 years old I will continue to have the same attitude that I have now”, Imam explained to the host.
Pakistan fans will hope this off-field debate does not affect their team, who are aiming for a second T20 World Cup title in the West Indies and the USA this month.
The men in green face hosts USA in their opening game on June 6th before a high-octane draw against India on Sunday June 9th.
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