Babar Azam Goes silent on Reporte’s Question, Shaheen Afridi Steps In With Bold Response

Babar Azam found himself speechless during a Pakistan Super League (PSL) press conference after being asked a tough question about Pakistan’s repeated failures to chase totals over 200 in T20 cricket. The awkward moment quickly went viral, but what caught fans’ attention even more was how Shaheen Afridi stepped up to defend Babar and Mohammad Rizwan, offering a composed and honest answer.

The incident occurred during a joint media appearance by Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and white-ball captain Mohammad Rizwan, ahead of the 10th season of the Pakistan Super League.

Reporter’s Tough Question Leaves Babar and Rizwan Silent

A journalist asked Babar Azam to explain Pakistan’s lack of success while chasing high scores in T20 cricket, particularly targets above 200.

“Where are we lacking? Is it the mindset or lack of intent? Whenever a team scores over 200, we panic and fail to chase it. Babar, can you answer?”

In response, Babar Azam remained silent, turning to Rizwan, who also chose not to speak. As tension built in the room, it was Shaheen Afridi who took the microphone to break the silence.

Shaheen Afridi’s Brave and Balanced Reply

“It’s our team, it’s Pakistan’s team. It’s not just the batters; bowlers are equally responsible for conceding 200+. The pitches are good for batting, but we need to do our best to chase or defend totals. We’re a team, we’re a family. It’s our collective job to get Pakistan cricket back to the top,” said Shaheen.

His reply earned widespread praise for addressing the issue without deflecting blame, and for showing leadership in a time when Pakistan cricket has come under heavy scrutiny.

Pakistan Cricket in Turmoil After Series of Defeats

The question came amid growing frustration with Pakistan’s recent performances. Their title defence in the Champions Trophy ended in the group stage after defeats to India and New Zealand.

Things didn’t improve on the subsequent white-ball tour of New Zealand, where Pakistan lost the T20I series 4-1 and were whitewashed 3-0 in the ODIs — even with the return of senior players like Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.

With back-to-back failures and World Cups looming in 2026 and 2027, the pressure is mounting on Pakistan’s senior core to find answers and lead a resurgence.

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