Insider information suggests that before his meeting with the PCB head at Lahore's National Cricket Academy (NCA), Babar Azam engaged in consultations regarding the possibility of taking legal action in response to the breach of his privacy
15 November, 2023
PHOTO: AFP
Pakistan cricket team captain, Babar Azam, is actively seeking advice and considering the option of pursuing legal measures against those who leaked his private conversation with a senior official from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) last month.
Insider information suggests that before his meeting with the PCB head at Lahore's National Cricket Academy (NCA), Babar Azam engaged in consultations regarding the possibility of taking legal action in response to the breach of his privacy.
The controversy began when former Pakistan cricketer, Rashid Latif, claimed on a local channel that Babar had attempted to contact key PCB figures, including Zaka Ashraf, Salman Naseer, and Usman Wahla, but received no response for two days.
In an attempt to counter Latif's claims, the PCB chief Ashraf shared a WhatsApp conversation between Babar Azam and PCB's Chief Operating Officer, Salman Naseer, with a sports journalist. In the exchange, Naseer questioned Babar about rumors regarding unsuccessful attempts to contact the chairman, to which Babar refuted making any calls.
The controversy escalated when a private news channel aired a screenshot of the chat, allegedly with permission from Zaka Ashraf, though the PCB distanced itself, stating it had no control over the channel's editorial policy.
Meanwhile, Babar Azam has stepped down from captaincy in all formats following first round exit in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Babar made the announcement through a statement posted on his social media handles.
“I vividly remember the moment when I received the call from PCB to lead Pakistan in 2019. Over the past four years, I've experienced many highs and lows on and off the field, but I wholeheartedly and passionately aimed to maintain Pakistan's pride and respect in the cricket world,” Babar wrote in his statement.
“Today, I am stepping down as the captain of Pakistan in all formats. It's a difficult decision but I feel it is a right time for this call.
“I will continue to represent Pakistan as a player in all three formats. I am here to support the new captain and the team with my experience and dedication.
“I want to express my sincere thanks to the Pakistan Cricket Board for entrusting me with this significant responsibility,” he added.
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