Cricket

Pakistan's white-ball captain, Babar Azam, has faced criticism from former players regarding his alleged influence on team selection. Basit Ali, a former Pakistan batter, raised concerns about Babar's dominance in the selection process, suggesting that he holds more sway than the selectors themselves.Ali questioned the transparency and accountability of the selection process, stating that Babar's influence has created a divide between him and the selection committee. He alleged that the recent squad announcement was delayed due to a rift within the committee, with some selectors not being consulted.Shahid Afridi, another former Pakistan captain, expressed frustration over the confusion surrounding the selection process. He criticized the late announcement of the squad and the lack of clarity in player selection. Afridi revealed that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had caused the delay due to his dissatisfaction with the absence of some selectors at a meeting.Naqvi reportedly demanded a proper process, ensuring that all selectors were present for the meeting. This incident highlights the ongoing issues within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the need for greater transparency and accountability in team selection.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has issued a bold challenge to current captain Babar Azam, demanding that he hit three consecutive sixes straight down the ground against top-tier teams. Ali has vowed to delete his YouTube channel if Azam succeeds."If Babar Azam hits three straight sixes against top teams, not against the likes of the USA or Ireland, but against top teams, I will shut down my YouTube channel," Ali declared. "If he accepts this challenge, he should say that he accepts it. And if he can't hit those sixes in the World Cup, then he shouldn't open the batting."Azam, 29, was recently reappointed as the white-ball captain of the Pakistan men's cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. The decision came after Azam had initially stepped down from the role in November, leading to Shaheen Shah Afridi's appointment.The PCB's selection committee unanimously recommended Azam's reinstatement, which was approved by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi.In the lead-up to the World Cup, Pakistan, having drawn a T20I series 2-2 against an inexperienced New Zealand, are set to face Ireland and England in the shortest format of the game over the coming weeks.Ali's challenge has sparked a debate among cricket fans and experts. Some believe that Azam is capable of meeting the challenge, while others question whether he has the consistency to hit three consecutive sixes against top-tier bowling attacks.If Azam accepts the challenge and succeeds, it would be a major boost to his confidence and the team's morale ahead of the World Cup. However, if he fails, it could raise questions about his ability to lead the team to success in the tournament.