Umar Akmal Takes Subtle Jab at Babar Azam

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has once again found himself at the centre of intense scrutiny following a disappointing performance in the Super Eight stage of the ongoing T20 World Cup. After failing to deliver against England, Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the semifinals have effectively diminished, prompting a fresh wave of criticism not only of the team but also of its skipper.

Among the voices of dissent, former Pakistan cricketer Umar Akmal, who is also Babar’s cousin, appeared to take a subtle dig at the captain. Akmal shared a video on Instagram highlighting his own storming 94-run innings against Australia in the 2014 T20 World Cup, in what many interpreted as a pointed reminder of how to lead from the front under pressure.

In the recent match held at Pallekele, Pakistan batted first and posted 164 runs. Babar, however, managed only 25 runs off 24 balls. His slow strike rate and inability to adapt to the match situation drew immediate criticism from analysts and former players alike. England chased down the target comfortably, losing just two wickets, and secured their place in the semifinals.

Several former stars have also voiced concerns. Imad Wasim questioned, “How many more matches can be lost in this manner? As a senior player, the responsibility is greater.” Similar sentiments were echoed by Mohammad Amir and Ahmed Shehzad, highlighting that Babar’s recent form is affecting not just his batting but the morale and momentum of the team.

Critics have increasingly raised questions about Babar’s leadership, pointing out that the team’s reliance on one of its most experienced batters has backfired at a crucial stage of the tournament. With Pakistan’s World Cup campaign hanging by a thread, analysts warn that the pressure on the captain and the squad will intensify if such performances persist.

Babar Azam now faces the dual challenge of reviving his personal form and restoring confidence in a side desperate to keep its semifinal ambitions alive.