‘Pakistan was ruined that day’: Ex-cricketer blames Babar Azam-Shaheen Afridi rift for team’s downfall

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has accused a rift between star players Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi for the decline of the national team. This claim came in the wake of Pakistan's poor performance in the England Test series, where they have lost their first two matches. The former batter further stated that Babar Azam's poor decision-making and leadership skills have been a major factor in the team's downfall.

Basit pointed out that the dispute between the two senior players created a deep divide within the team, resulting in the ruined state of Pakistani cricket. He also noted that the effects of this rift are still evident in the current state of the sport. Since the 2023 ODI World Cup, the team has seen several leadership changes, with Babar stepping down as captain after the Indian tour, only to be replaced by Shaheen.

However, both players have seen their stints as captains end due to poor performances. The PCB has since taken steps to address the situation, sending seven players home and replacing key coaching staff. Despite Babar's continued role as the Test captain, Shaheen is currently out of favor in Test cricket.