'People twisted my words, called me traitor': Ex-Pakistan star drops sensational ‘Virat Kohli’ advice for Babar Azam

The former Pakistan star reminded fans of his opinion on Babar Azam's captaincy following the side's third-successive defeat in the 2023 World Cup on Monday.

Pakistan's campaign at the 2023 World Cup endured a major setback earlier this week when the side faced a stunning defeat to Afghanistan. It was Pakistan's first loss in ODIs to the side, and the one that has made the road to semi-final qualification rather tricky for Babar Azam's men. Pakistan stand at fifth position in the points table but with a negative Net Run Rate; with four matches remaining, Babar and co. will not only have to win all but may also have to rely on other results to go in their favour to secure a berth in the knock-out stage.

Pakistan's captain Babar Azam reacts while fielding during the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup match between Australia and Pakistan(AFP)

It was a rather uninspiring outing – particularly on the field – for Pakistan against Afghanistan, as the latter chased down a 284-run target with 8 wickets in hand and an over remaining. Their bowling attack – particularly spinners – lacked sharpness and faced severe criticism from former cricketers back home. Skipper Babar Azam also came under the scanner as his captaincy decisions drew attention, with many criticising the Pakistan star for being too defensive.

Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali was also critical of Babar's captaincy following the loss to Afghanistan, and reminded the fans of his statement on the player's leadership from a year ago.

"I told one year ago on my channel that Babar Azam is a very good batter. He should quit captaincy, just like Virat Kohli did. Virat stepped down and looked at his performances. His performance will become better, for sure," Basit Ali told ARY News.

"But, as we all know, certain people on social media twisted my words, saying I don't like Babar Azam and I am a traitor," he further said.

'No pressure'

While Babar continues to face backlash, the Pakistan batter insisted he has no pressure of captaincy on his own performances. Babar was the side's highest scorer (74) during the game agianst Afghanistan, but has scored two fifties in five matches so far.

"As far as captaincy is concerned, I don't have much pressure on me or on my batting. I try to give my best in batting," Babar said after Monday's loss to Afghanistan.