King Babar Azam will return,’ says Hasan Ali amidst HBL PSL X criticism

Hasan Ali backs Babar Azam, calling him Pakistan’s best player and says he'll bounce back amid HBL PSL 10 criticism.

Daily Khyber PostApril 16, 2025

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Karachi Kings vice-captain Hasan Ali has come out in support of former Pakistan captain Babar Azam, calling for patience and backing the batter to bounce back from his current rough patch.

Hasan Ali voiced strong support for Babar Azam during a post-match press conference on Monday following Karachi Kings’ loss to Lahore Qalandars in the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Labelled by many as out of form, Babar has been facing scrutiny for his performances in PSL 10. However, Hasan dismissed the criticism and reaffirmed Babar’s value to the national side.

Babar is our best player, and he will bounce back,” said Hasan, referencing his earlier remark calling Babar a ‘king’. “We made Babar the king, and we are also bringing him down. If my words — ‘The King will deliver’ — hurt anyone, I apologise. But my stance remains unchanged.”

Hasan also addressed Karachi Kings’ struggles in their latest match, admitting a top-order collapse led to their defeat. “We lost early wickets, couldn’t build partnerships, and the pressure mounted,” he said.

The fast bowler, who last featured for Pakistan in May 2024, further spoke about the culture of criticism around players, particularly on social media.

“Criticism for improvement is fine, but when families are targeted, it affects everyone,” he said, referencing incidents from Pakistan’s tour of New Zealand earlier this year. “I understand that as public figures, we’re always under scrutiny. Our job is to respond with performances.”

Hasan reaffirmed his commitment to returning to the national squad, saying, “I’m still young and believe in my ability. Performances here will decide my international future.”

The 30-year-old was part of Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy-winning side and continues to be a vocal figure in domestic and franchise cricket.