There is speculation that Babar could be dropped for the match since he did not make it to practice, which was attended by Naqvi too.
The former captain took significant criticism for his knock of 64 off 94 deliveries in the team’s loss to New Zealand in the opening match. Babar was lashed out at for failing to accelerate though the asking rate kept creeping up in Karachi.
Aqib Javed, the team’s interim tactician, addressed the media after practice, but did not lay out any clear reasons explaining Azam’s absence.
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Last night, Naqvi met the Pakistan cricket team at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, and urged them to win Sunday’s crucial match against India “at any cost” to silence critics. Pakistan would be knocked out of the tournament if they lose this game.
The team was scheduled to practice for about two hours but the proceedings were halted within an hour as Naqvi took “stock of things”, met captain Mohammad Rizwan and head coach Aqeeb Javed and discussed cricketing matters with them.
PTI has learnt through reliable sources that he urged the captain, coach and players to give it their best shot against India and win the match to “silence their critics, including himself.” He was seen having a long chat with pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf.
Naqvi, who was reportedly unhappy with the selection of the team, made it a point to meet each and every player, coach and support staff.
Later, Naqvi told media-persons that the Pakistani team was ready to face India and do well against them.
“It would be a great game and our team is fully prepared and in my opinion, they are in form. We are with our team, whether they win or lose,” he said.
When asked about Pakistan having to play India here despite being the hosts of Champions trophy, he quipped: “You should ask this to Indians if the same would have happened to them, then how they would have felt?” India had refused to travel to Pakistan citing security concerns and are playing their share of Champions Trophy matches in Dubai. Even the final of the tournament will be held in Dubai if India go the distance.
(With PTI inputs)
First Published: Feb 23, 2025 9:18 AM IST
