PAK Vs BAN: 'Is This How You're Going To Talk?' Shoaib Akhtar Tears Apart Babar Azam After Pakistan Gets Knocked Out Of ICC World Cup 2023

Published - 28 Oct 2023, 12:33 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 07:46 AM

Shoaib Akhtar On Babar Azam
Shoaib Akhtar On Babar Azam (Credits:X)

In a recent podcast, former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar criticized current Pakistan National Cricket Team captain Babar Azam for his communication skills, particularly his command of the English language. Akhtar’s comments have ignited a significant debate in the cricketing world and beyond about the role of communication and language proficiency for cricket captains, especially in international competitions.

Akhtar’s remarks underline his belief that a captain must be not only a leader on the field but also a proficient communicator off it, especially when dealing with the international press. He questioned Babar Azam’s casual conversation style, citing an example where the captain asked, “Petrol sasta ho gaya hai?” (Is petrol cheap now?) during a press interaction. Akhtar expressed concern about the perceived lack of seriousness and professionalism in such interactions.

Shoaib Akhtar’s criticism also extends to the use of English, which he considers crucial for a cricket captain, as it is the lingua franca of international cricket. He emphasized that speaking fluently in English is an essential aspect of a captain’s role, given that cricket is a global sport with a diverse fanbase.

Shoaib Akhtar said, “A captain has to be above and beyond if he’s not then it’s a problem. See these things matter in front of the international press. ‘Petrol Sasta ho gaya hai?'(Is Petrol Cheap now), is that how you’re going to talk? is this the way you’re going to talk? That’s why I say that you should learn to speak.

“Why did you hire me to come and do your podcast, I’m well-spoken. This is one component which works for me as a brand, that I’m well-spoken. So it’s not important for you guys that the World Press is in front of you and you’re cracking jokes. Is it a part of your duty or not?”

Furthermore, Akhtar drew a comparison with French people who communicate in French, suggesting that they do so because they are considered a developing nation. In contrast, he believes Pakistan, being an up-and-coming nation in the cricketing world, should strive to have cricket captains who can speak English fluently.

Watch: Shoaib Akhtar’s Scathing Criticism Of Babar Azam’s Speaking Skills

The debate sparked by Akhtar’s comments revolves around the idea that communication skills, including proficiency in English, are an integral part of a captain’s responsibilities. While some argue that a captain’s role primarily lies in their on-field performance and leadership, others contend that effective communication is crucial to representing the team and the nation on the international stage.

Babar Azam, as Pakistan’s captain, is no doubt an exceptional talent on the cricket field, but the discussion raised by Shoaib Akhtar’s comments serves as a reminder that a captain’s role extends beyond just scoring runs and leading the team to victories. How a captain conducts themselves in public, especially in front of the international press, reflects not only on themselves but also on the entire team and their country.

Cricket captains need to find a balance between showcasing their personality and maintaining professionalism when speaking to the media. Effective communication can help in building the team’s image, fostering a connection with the fans, and enhancing the team’s brand value.

The debate over the significance of conversation skills and language proficiency in cricket captaincy will likely continue, but Shoaib Akhtar’s comments have certainly brought this issue to the forefront. Whether this debate leads to changes in how captains are groomed and trained in the future remains to be seen, but it highlights the ever-evolving nature of cricket captaincy in the modern era.

Tagged:

Babar Azam ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 ICC ODI World Cup 2023 ICC World Cup 2023 Pakistan National Cricket Team Shoaib Akhtar
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