Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has faced intense scrutiny after Pakistan’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Despite harsh critiques from former Pakistani cricketers, including Shoaib Akhtar, who labelled Babar a ‘fraud,’ several Indian cricketing legends have come to his defence.
Pakistan, hosting the tournament, was knocked out following losses to New Zealand and India. Babar’s 64 off 90 balls in a high chase against New Zealand and 23 against India were seen as insufficient, sparking a debate over his form, which has been inconsistent since his last ODI century against Nepal in August 2023.
Sidhu ji has spoken the truth ! Pakistanis should respect Babar Azam instead of tearing him down. But some clowns journalists& ex-cricketers'are using his name for money &views🤡
When legends like Lara ,Gavaskar, ABD & S.V Richards praise Babar"why do his own people betray him ? pic.twitter.com/G8jmQB29OI
— Bilal56pct (@Bilal56pct) February 25, 2025Navjot Singh Sidhu, a former Indian cricketer and commentator known for his vibrant expressions, passionately defended Babar. Sidhu emphasized that even the best, like Virat Kohli, have faced slumps, urging fans and critics to respect Babar and allow him the space to contribute to his team without harsh judgment.
Former Indian player Navjot Singh Sidhu defended Babar Azam, urging people to appreciate him instead of constantly criticizing, reminding them that even great players like Virat Kohli have had failures.#TOKSports #NavjotSinghSidhu #BabarAzam #ICCChampionsTrophy #tokct25 pic.twitter.com/j5Xf41WL3Q
— TOK Sports (@TOKSports021) February 25, 2025Adding to the support, Indian batting legend Sunil Gavaskar provided Babar with technical advice to enhance his game. On Basit Ali’s YouTube channel, Gavaskar advised reducing the stance width for better crease movement and bounce judgment, suggesting these adjustments could help Babar regain top form.
Indian ex-cricketers are supporting and praising Babar Azam, while his own countrymen and former cricketers are doing their best to bring him down.
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— Hafsa🇵🇰 (@hafsayall) February 25, 2025Despite the team’s elimination, Pakistan will face Bangladesh in their final Champions Trophy match on Wednesday, 26 February. This game allows Babar to regain his rhythm and silence his critics amid ongoing speculation about his future as captain.
