T20 World Cup 2024: Azhar Mahmood Quashes Rumours Of Babar-Shaheen Rift

New York, June 11 (PTI): Pakistan assistant coach Azhar Mahmood has dismissed rumours of a rift between skipper Babar Azam and premier pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi. Mahmood refuted former captain Wasim Akram's claims that the duo is not on speaking terms.

Mahmood also criticised those who believe players should remain confined to their hotel rooms, brooding over their narrow defeat against India. He emphasised that players need a life outside cricket.

There have been speculations about two factions within the Pakistan team—one led by Babar Azam and the other by Shaheen Shah Afridi. Mahmood, however, denied these claims, stating that both players are good friends and part of the same team.

"Wasim must have said that, but I don't know. I didn't see it. Shaheen and Babar are definitely talking, they are good friends. They are both part of the Pakistan team. We have not lost because of anyone, it is our mistake too," Mahmood said, referring to the team's six-run loss to India.

When questioned about players not attending press conferences, Mahmood explained that the support staff shares equal responsibility for defeats. He assured that no players are being hidden from the media.

"We are not hiding any players, everyone is there. Everything is there. I said earlier that we are a team. Obviously, we're sitting here, and it's our responsibility. We're not delivering. That's why I'm sitting here," he stated.

"Yesterday, Gary (Kirsten) was sitting here. So definitely, it's not like we're hiding a player. They're part of us," he added.

Post-Match Reactions

Mahmood, chief selector Wahab Riaz, and skipper Babar Azam were seen dining at a restaurant after the loss to India, which sparked angry reactions from fans. Mahmood defended their actions by pointing out that even he saw the reporter at the same restaurant.

"You were there. I'm telling you; you were there. I saw you there too," Mahmood responded to a Pakistani reporter's question.

He further elaborated on the emotional nature of Pakistani fans and stressed the importance of mental relaxation for players after a match loss.

"The thing is, we are a very emotional nation. I mean, it's not possible that if you lose a match, your life will be over. Yes, how will you do it? If you lose a match and then you come to the room and bang the walls of the room, then you need a little time to relax your mind," he explained.

"Now, obviously, our players are not like that. I've been with English teams too. If they go to a place like that, you can only go to eat; that's our entertainment," Mahmood concluded.