"Babar Azam is not King," says Mohammad Hafeez

Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has raised concerns about Babar Azam's performance in crucial matches after the national team's defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The six-wicket loss has put Pakistan's title defense in jeopardy.

Batting first, Pakistan scored a modest 241 runs and was bowled out in the final over. India chased down the target with 45 balls to spare, largely thanks to a stellar century from Virat Kohli.

During a TV show, Hafeez remarked, “Babar Azam is not the true king; it is Virat Kohli. Look at his performances—he has dominated all over the world. We need to move beyond the PR machinery and focus on real performers.”

Hafeez also compared Babar's performance to that of former great Inzamam-ul-Haq, noting that Babar has not delivered a match-winning performance against India in his ten-year career. 

“Inzamam ul Haq used to win matches for Pakistan in tough situations. Babar Azam has not won a single game against India in ten years,” Hafeez stated.

He also emphasized Babar's lack of standout performances in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia), arguing that great players not only contribute but also dominate. 

“He [Babar] has no player of the series awards in SENA countries. Forget about winning or losing; you should aim to be the player of the series,” Hafeez added.

Hafeez believes it is time for Pakistan to consider moving on from underperforming players and support those excelling in domestic cricket. 

“We need to recognize these issues and give him the truth. It’s time to promote players who are performing well in domestic leagues, and they will become heroes again in the PSL,” he concluded.

Virat Kohli’s 51st ODI century led India to a six-wicket win over Pakistan in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Chasing 242 runs, India reached the target with 45 balls to spare, thanks to a crucial 114-run partnership between Kohli and Shreyas Iyer, who scored 56 runs. Kohli finished unbeaten on 100 off 111 balls.

Pakistan had set the target after being bowled out for 241, with Saud Shakeel top-scoring at 62. Kuldeep Yadav was the standout bowler for India, taking three wickets.

India’s strong performance keeps them on track for the tournament title.