Pakistan’s campaign in the Asia Cup 2023 took an unexpected turn as Shadab Khan, the vice-captain, made a surprising revelation about the team’s dynamics. The tournament began positively for Pakistan, with a convincing victory over Nepal followed by a washed-out game against Afghanistan. They continued their winning streak with a Super 4 victory over Bangladesh. However, their fortunes took a nosedive with a crushing defeat to India.
In a do-or-die match against Sri Lanka, Pakistan failed to defend their score of 252 runs in 42 overs, resulting in their exit from the Asia Cup. Reports emerged of a rift within the Pakistan dressing room, with skipper Babar Azam and pace bowler Shaheen Afridi reportedly involved in a heated exchange during a team meeting after the Sri Lanka loss. Mohammad Rizwan had to intervene to defuse the situation.
Also Read: IND vs SL, Asia Cup 2023 Final: Records Broken by India and Sri Lanka – Full ListAdding fuel to the fire, Shadab Khan, the leg-spinner, made a candid comment about Babar Azam’s captaincy. Shadab revealed that he and his teammates do not particularly enjoy Babar Azam’s captaincy on the field but have no issues with him off the field. He noted that Babar Azam’s personality undergoes a significant change when he assumes the captain’s role on the field.
“We don’t really enjoy with Babar on the field because he is a different person altogether over there, but we do enjoy with him off the field,” Shadab remarked. Pakistan, now looking to regroup, is focused on the upcoming World Cup, set to commence on October 5 in India.
These comments surfaced shortly after Babar Azam expressed concerns about Shadab Khan’s bowling performance during the Asia Cup, where Shadab struggled to take wickets. Despite his struggles, Babar Azam acknowledged Shadab’s bowling skills and considered him one of the team’s top bowlers.