Babar Azam Says He Was Unaware of Reported Boycott Discussions During England Test

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has said he was not aware of reports that the national team had considered refusing to return to the field following the lunch break on the opening day of the second Test against England at Lord’s.

Speaking to BBC Test Match Special after the match, Babar was asked about reports of a possible decision not to resume play.

“No, no, no. I have not heard that thing,” he said.

When questioned further about whether he knew of any such discussions, Babar described the reports as rumours.

Controversy Over Sky Sports Interview

The reports emerged after Sky Sports broadcast an interview with Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former Pakistan captain and former prime minister Imran Khan, during the lunch break on the first day of the Test.

According to reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had raised concerns about the broadcast and discussed the possibility of not continuing the match. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also reportedly sought guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

However, Pakistan’s players returned to the field after the lunch interval and the Test continued as scheduled.

What Was Said in the Interview?

During the Sky Sports interview, Suleiman and Kasim Khan discussed concerns regarding their father’s situation and also commented on the UK government’s response.

Pakistan head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed had previously said that he and the players were unaware of the controversy at the time. He explained that the team was having lunch and remained focused on the ongoing Test.

Babar’s latest comments similarly indicate that the reported discussions between the cricket boards did not involve the Pakistan players directly, at least according to his account.

The controversy has since attracted considerable attention, while Pakistan continued with the Test series in England.