Babar Azam, the Pakistan cricket captain, has found himself at the center of various controversies that have made headlines in recent times. From leaked WhatsApp chats to Twitter spats and even allegations of traffic violations, these controversies have sparked discussions and debates among cricket fans and the public alike. In this listicle, we will explore ten such controversies involving Babar Azam, shedding light on the issues that have surrounded the talented cricketer and Pakistan's cricket captain.
Babar Azam's private conversation with PCB's COO Salman Naseer was leaked amidst rumors that PCB chief Zaka Ashraf was not responding to his calls. This controversy raised questions about the captain's relationship with the board.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif claimed that PCB chief Ashraf had ceased communication with Babar Azam. He also alleged that Pakistan cricketers had not received their salaries for several months, adding to the controversy.
There are speculations that Babar Azam might be replaced as captain after the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, given Pakistan's disappointing performance in the tournament.
Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis expressed his support for Babar Azam and criticized those pressuring him. He defended Babar's role as an asset to Pakistan cricket.
Babar Azam was involved in a Twitter exchange with Pakistani sports journalist Zainab Abbas, where he reprimanded her for comments made in 2018, which escalated into a social media controversy.
Zainab Abbas faced backlash for her alleged "anti-India" tweets, which eventually led to her departure from India during the ICC World Cup 2023, causing a social media storm.
Reports emerged of a divided Pakistan team during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, with speculations of a rift between Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. However, PCB denied these rumours.
Babar Azam received a fine from Punjab Motorway Police for overspeeding, highlighting the need for adherence to traffic laws, even for cricketing stars.
An American YouTuber called Virat Kohli the "Greatest of All Time" on one of Babar Azam's Instagram posts, sparking banter and humor on social media among Indian and Pakistani cricket fans.
Pakistani actress Sehar Shinwari made critical comments about Babar Azam and the Pakistan cricket team after their loss to India in the Asia Cup 2023, which generated controversy and discussions about the pressures faced by the team.