'Don't know how many Tests have you played': Basit Ali mocks Babar Azam's father

'Don't know how many Tests have you played': Basit Ali mocks Babar Azam's father

News Desk • Mar 07

Former cricketer Basit Ali has stated that he was unaware of Babar Azam's father's involvement in his cricketing career and has urged him to help Babar improve his batting technique.

Speaking on ARY's program, Har Lamha Purjosh, the former Test batter, said, "We didn't know that Babar Azam's coach is his father. It's a good thing that his father is coaching him, but I request him to work on Babar's technique."

He emphasised that fixing technical issues is in Babar's hands, adding, "We wish him well. When Babar was the captain, Usama Mir's name was not even considered for the T20 World Cup."

He further pointed out that Usama Mir had performed exceptionally well in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) but was overlooked for selection. "Usama Mir's parents must have prayed for him too. His family must have felt heartbroken when he was dropped from the squad," he said.

"Every player's parents pray for them and also feel disappointed when things don't go their way. All cricketers should be given equal opportunities in the national team," he added.

Meanwhile, former wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal also weighed in on the matter, stating, "Every father loves his son. Some fathers openly express their feelings, while others leave it to fate. Babar needs to improve himself further, according to modern-day cricket. Posting statements after a player is dropped is not a good practice."

He further criticised social media posts made by players' family members, saying, "When a player's father or brother makes such posts, it disrespects the institution. The people Babar's father is referring to have always supported him."

A day earlier, Babar Azam's father, Azam Siddique, defended his son amid widespread criticism over his recent poor performances, particularly during the Champions Trophy.

In a social media statement, Siddique addressed the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to rest Babar for the upcoming series against New Zealand, emphasizing that his son was dropped despite being named in the ICC T20 Team of the Year.

He assured fans that Babar would make a strong comeback through performances in the National T20 Cup and PSL and urged former cricketers to be mindful of their words. "I request ex-players to choose their words carefully. If someone responds, you may not be able to tolerate it. You are the past and will never play again," he wrote.

Siddique also responded to criticism regarding his public support for Babar. "People say 'the father' talks too much. I am Babar's first and last coach. I am his spokesperson and mentor. Above all, I am his well-wishing father."

Taking a swipe at critics, he added, "Those who are making noise should check their performances from their playing days. Just visit PCB's website once—hints are enough for the wise."

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