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'Shaheen And My Bond Is Not...': Babar Azam Opens Up In The Wake of Captaincy Controversy

Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi's relationship has been a huge topic of discussionBabar Azam and Shaheen Afridi's relationship has been a huge topic of discussion

Pakistan's reinstated T20 captain, Babar Azam has publicly dismissed any notions of discord between himself and his predecessor, Shaheen Afridi.

The declaration comes ahead of Pakistan's high-stakes T20 International series against New Zealand, commencing on April 18 in Rawalpindi.

This leadership shift follows a turbulent period for Pakistan cricket, marked notably by Babar Azam's resignation from captaincy after the team's disappointing exit from the World Cup 2023 in India.

Babar Azam opens up on longstanding friendship with Shaheen Afridi

Shaheen Afridi briefly assumed the T20 captaincy role, leading Pakistan in a challenging series in New Zealand, which concluded unfavourably with a 1-4 loss.

Shaheen's tenure as captain was abruptly ended last month, sparking controversy after a Pakistan Cricket Board statement misquoted him, intensifying the scrutiny around the team's leadership dynamics.

During his first press conference since his return as captain, Babar mentioned his longstanding relationship and mutual support with Shaheen.

The Pakistan skipper highlighted their shared focus on elevating Pakistan's cricketing stature rather than pursuing personal accolades. He also stressed that their collaboration is rooted in commitment to the national team's success and reputation.

"I want to make clear that Shaheen [Afridi] and my bond is not recent, it goes back a long way. We support each other in every situation. Our aim is to put Pakistan first, and how to put Pakistan's name up in lights. We don't think of individual glory, and thankfully, those elements are not present in my team," said Babar as quoted by Hindustan Times.


As Babar takes the helm once again, the upcoming series against New Zealand presents a critical opportunity for Pakistan to prove their mettle under his leadership. 

The cricket community will watch keenly as Pakistan aims to turn a new leaf in its T20I ambitions, starting with the upcoming clash in Rawalpindi.