PCB Takes Action Against Fakhar Zaman for Controversial Babar Azam Tweet
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Pakistan opening batter Fakhar Zaman has found himself in hot water following a controversial tweet regarding Babar Azam’s recent exclusion from the national team. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is reportedly unhappy with Zaman’s comments and has issued him a show cause notice. According to media reports, the left-handed batsman has until October 21 to respond to the notice.
Zaman’s tweet came after the selectors made drastic changes to the team following Pakistan’s historic innings defeat, which included dropping not only Babar Azam but also Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah. This decision has sparked mixed reactions among fans and cricket analysts alike. Many have expressed their concerns about the rationale behind sidelining a player of Babar Azam’s caliber.
In his tweet, Zaman pointed out that the Indian selectors continued to support Virat Kohli during his challenging phase from 2020 to 2022. He wrote:
“It’s concerning to hear suggestions about dropping Babar Azam. India didn’t bench Virat Kohli during his rough stretch between 2020 and 2023, when he averaged 19.33, 28.21, and 26.50, respectively. If we are considering sidelining our premier batsman, arguably the best Pakistan has ever produced, it could send a deeply negative message across the team. There is still time to avoid pressing the panic button; we should focus on safeguarding our key players rather than undermining them.”
The team management has stated that Babar Azam’s exclusion is not due to his performance but is part of a broader strategy concerning workload management. This raises questions about the consistency of selection criteria within the team, especially when it comes to high-profile players.
As a contracted player, Zaman was one of the eight individuals who attended the recent Connection Camp organized by the PCB, which included discussions with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and coaches Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten. During this camp, players shared their concerns regarding the management of team affairs and the decision-making process.
With the deadline for Zaman’s response fast approaching, the cricketing community will be closely watching how the PCB handles this issue and what it means for the future dynamics of the team. As the controversy unfolds, fans hope for a resolution that maintains the integrity of the team while also addressing the players’ concerns.
Read Original Content: PCB Takes Action Against Fakhar Zaman for Controversial Babar Azam Tweet