Umar Akmal Blames Babar Azam for Pakistan Cricket's Downfall

Umar Akmal has criticized former Pakistan cricket captain Babar Azam, accusing him of failing to build bench strength during his tenure. Akmal claims Babar's favoritism hindered the national team's performance in major tournaments. The Champions Trophy loss to New Zealand amplified criticisms against Azam's leadership and decision-making.

Discarded Test batsman Umar Akmal has publicly blamed former Pakistan captain Babar Azam for the national cricket team's deteriorating performance, asserting that Azam's leadership lacked vision and failed to establish a strong bench.

Pakistan, defending their title and hosting a global tournament after nearly thirty years, stumbled out of the gates losing to New Zealand in their Champions Trophy opener, drawing attention to Babar's previously criticized captaincy.

Akmal, out of the team since 2019, recounted efforts to return to the squad, urging Babar to consider him for selection, an opportunity he alleges was overlooked, further attributing the team's stagnation to Azam's leadership and favoritism.