Babar Azam Says He Was Unaware of Reported Boycott Threat During Pakistan vs England Test

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has refuted claims that his team contemplated abandoning the field during the lunch interval of the opening day of the second Test match against England at Lord’s. "No, no, no," Babar stated to BBC Test Match Special after the game had ended. When further inquired about any such talks, Babar categorically denied the rumors.

The predicament stemmed from Sky Sports airing an interview with the sons of former Pakistan captain and prime minister Imran Khan, Suleiman and Kasim Khan, during the lunch break on the first day. The interview aired before the PCB had hinted at not resuming the Test and possibly canceling the remainder of the three-match series.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also sought guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office concerning the matter. Despite the rumored discord, Pakistan's athletes returned to the field as planned following the lunch break and the match proceeded. In the Sky Sports interview, Suleiman and Kasim voiced worries over their father's treatment and security, and also criticized the UK government's reaction.

Prior to this, Pakistan head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed had assured that he and the players were oblivious to the controversy surrounding the interview. Babar's assertion has further marginalized the Pakistan players from the rumored talks between the PCB and the ECB regarding the broadcast.