AB de Villiers Reacts To Alleged Rift In Pakistan Cricket Team, Says 'Leaders Standing Up And Making Their Voices Heard'

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers responded to the alleged rift within the Pakistan cricket team following their exit from the Asia Cup 2023. AB de Villiers stated that arguments can be a positive sign of leaders taking charge and setting the team’s direction.

According to news reports, captain Babar Azam and left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi engaged in a heated exchange in the dressing room after Pakistan’s elimination from the Asia Cup. However, Shaheen shared a photo with Babar on social media and captioned it “family.”

Nothing Wrong With That – AB de Villiers

Speaking on the 360 show, AB de Villiers emphasized that it’s essential to have such discussions to resolve issues and align the team’s approach as they prepare for the ODI World Cup 2023.

“We saw some footage in the change room, where there was a little bit of friction. A couple of fights here and there, which is absolutely normal. If I am a Pakistan supporter, I wouldn’t worry about that. I would actually be happy about that – there are some leaders standing up and making their voices heard and even arguing a little bit,” De Villiers said.

“There’s nothing wrong with that, you need that sometimes to settle the dust. To look each other in the eye, to tell each other – listen, this is how it’s going to work, that is not on, this is how we play. Now we are going into the World Cup, we need to man up,” he added.

Despite the rumors, Babar Azam attended Shaheen Afridi’s wedding reception. This gesture could be seen as a sign that the players are maintaining unity within the team.

They’ll Have to Find Some Form – AB de Villiers

AB de Villiers emphasized that the Pakistan cricketers need to improve their on-field performance with the World Cup just a few weeks away.

“I would be quietly optimistic or quietly confident as a Pakistan fan. They’ve done incredibly well to sort these things out in the dressing room. It’s always a good sign. But, at the end of the day, they’ll have to find some form on the park. We know they are capable,” he concluded.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to announce its World Cup squad on Friday. Young pacer Naseem Shah has been ruled out of the upcoming marquee tournament due to injury.

Also read: Mohammed Siraj Is In Your Face…: AB de Villiers Lauds Indian Pacer