Shoaib Akhtar calls Babar Azam a ‘fraud’ in scathing review

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar launched a scathing critique of Babar Azam following Pakistan’s defeat to India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, branding him a “fraud” and questioning his mindset.

Speaking on a TV show, Akhtar dismissed comparisons between Babar and Virat Kohli, stressing that Kohli’s influences and approach to the game were far superior. He pointed to Kohli’s admiration for Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar, contrasting it with what he deemed Babar’s misplaced inspirations.

“We often hear comparisons between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli. But who is Kohli’s hero? It’s Sachin Tendulkar, a man with 100 international centuries. Kohli is chasing that legacy,” Akhtar said.

The former pacer went further, criticising Babar’s choice of role models.

“Who is Babar Azam’s role model? Let’s not name any cricketer, but you’ve chosen the wrong role models. Your thought process is wrong. You were a fraud from the beginning,” he added.

Babar, already under pressure, managed just 23 runs off 26 balls, despite hitting five boundaries, in the high-stakes encounter. Pakistan set a target of 241, which India chased down comfortably in 42.3 overs, securing a six-wicket victory.

Akhtar also praised Kohli, who anchored India’s chase with an unbeaten century.

“When Kohli plays against Pakistan, you just know he’s going to get a hundred. He’s a modern-day legend, a white-ball run machine. There’s no debate about his greatness,” he said.

Pakistan, the defending champions, have now been eliminated from the tournament alongside Bangladesh. Their title defence began with a loss to New Zealand, followed by the defeat to India in Dubai, where Kohli’s 100* led his side to victory.

The ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 continues until March 9.