Former Pakistan pacer Tanveer Ahmed has triggered a storm after urging Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to retire if they feel disrespected following their omission from the Asia Cup squad. Referring to Virat Kohli’s example, he said dignity should always come first.
Babar and Rizwan’s Ouster Raises Eyebrows
Not long ago, Babar was the No. 1 T20I batter, breaking records and captaining Pakistan in the T20 World Cup. Rizwan too was a key part of the side. But both were dropped from Pakistan’s T20I series earlier this year and now faced the same snub in the Asia Cup squad announcement.
Tanveer tweeted in Urdu, “Meri Babar Azam aur Rizwan say request hai ager ap log yeh samajhtey hain ap logon ke izzat nahi ha tou retirement ley lo international cricket say humarey samne Virat Kohli ke examples hain. Babar and Rizwan, respect is in your hands.”
Kohli’s Retirement Sparks Comparison
Ahmed’s comments drew parallels to Virat Kohli’s shock retirement from Test cricket earlier this year. While speculation suggested BCCI pressure, board Vice-President Rajeev Shukla clarified it was Kohli’s personal choice. “The BCCI doesn’t tell any player to retire. It was their call,” Shukla said.
PCB Wants Strike-Rate Improvement
Pakistan’s white-ball head coach Mike Hesson revealed that Babar was asked to improve his strike rate, particularly against spinners, and use Australia’s Big Bash League as a proving ground ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup. “He’s too good a player not to consider,” Hesson stressed.
Questions Over Fakhar Zaman’s Selection
Tanveer Ahmed also raised concerns about Fakhar Zaman’s inclusion despite a hamstring injury in the West Indies series. “Was Fakhar Zaman forced into the team, or was he included to block Babar Azam’s return?” Ahmed questioned.
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