Not Become King by Employing PR’: Mohammad Hafeez Slams Babar Azam, Calls Virat Kohli ‘The Real King’
By Smrati Khare in 5 hours
Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 has been far from impressive, and after their latest defeat to India, criticism is pouring in for their star batter, Babar Azam. Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has strongly criticized Babar, comparing him to India’s Virat Kohli, who led his side to yet another convincing victory against their arch-rivals. Hafeez didn’t hold back, stating that Virat Kohli is the true king of world cricket, not Babar, who, according to him, has been promoted through PR rather than performance.
Mohammad Hafeez Criticizes Babar Azam’s Performance Against India
In the Group A match at the Dubai International Stadium, India secured an easy six-wicket victory over Pakistan, with Virat Kohli scoring an unbeaten 100, while Babar Azam managed just 23 runs off 26 balls before getting dismissed.
Following the match, Hafeez spoke on PTV Sports, where he criticized Babar’s inability to perform in crucial matches, particularly against India. He expressed frustration with PR-driven comparisons between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli, emphasizing that Kohli has consistently delivered on the big stage, while Babar has yet to make an impact in high-pressure games.
‘Virat Kohli is a High-Stage Performer’ – Hafeez Praises Kohli’s Match-Winning Ability
During his analysis, Hafeez highlighted that Virat Kohli thrives on big occasions, a trait that separates him from others. He pointed out that Kohli is always prepared for high-stakes matches, particularly against Pakistan, and that his hunger for match-winning performances is what makes him stand out.
“Virat is a high-stage performer. He looks out for big occasions and performs. Whenever India plays against Pakistan, you get a chance to star in those matches. Players like Shoaib Malik and Shahid Afridi became legends because they delivered in India-Pakistan matches. But Babar Azam has never stepped up in these games,” Hafeez stated.
Hafeez further criticized Babar’s mindset and approach, saying that unlike Kohli, Babar does not have the aggressive mentality required to take his team over the line in pressure situations.
“Virat Kohli keeps waiting for those occasions. He waits to cash in on those opportunities. He keeps a positive mindset; he thinks, ‘I will win the match for India. I will not only play, but I will win the match for my country.’ And that’s why he is the greatest batter in the world,” Hafeez added.
Babar Azam’s Struggles in the Champions Trophy 2025
Babar Azam’s poor run in the Champions Trophy 2025 has been a major talking point. He was previously criticized for his slow 64-run knock off 90 balls against New Zealand, where Pakistan failed to chase a target of 321.
Hafeez noted that Babar has never won a Man of the Match award against India, reinforcing his argument that he fails to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
“In reality, if someone deserves to be called King, it is Virat Kohli, not Babar Azam. Look at his performance. He has performed all across the world, not become a king by employing PR. Call out those spokespersons, show them the mirror,” Hafeez remarked.
Pakistan on the Brink of Elimination
With two losses in their opening matches, Pakistan’s chances of qualifying for the semi-finals are slim. To stay in contention, they now need Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand and then must win their remaining matches convincingly.
Even if Bangladesh beats New Zealand, Pakistan must defeat Bangladesh and hope for an Indian victory over the Kiwis to have any chance of progressing.
As criticism mounts on Babar Azam, the debate around his ability to lead Pakistan in major tournaments continues to grow. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli’s consistency in big games further cement…
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