Ahmed Shehzad has come out swinging in defense of Babar Azam after Peshawar Zalmi bowed out of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 following a 26-run loss to Lahore Qalandars in Rawalpindi.
In a post on his X account (formerly Twitter), the Pakistan Test opener hit back at the narrative blaming Zalmi skipper Babar Azam for the team’s underwhelming season.
Shehzad argued that cricket is a team game and that the entire squad should be held accountable—not just one player.
Yes, Babar Azam is out of form. Yes, his last 50 was slow. But why is all the pressure always on him? Cricket is a team game. What are the other 10 doing? He was taking risks today which was the right approach. Where are the rest of the batters when it matters the…
— Ahmad Shahzad 🇵🇰 (@iamAhmadshahzad) May 18, 2025
Zalmi’s must-win clash against Qalandars on Sunday was shortened due to rain, reducing their target to 150 in 13 overs.
Despite a strong start, they faltered late and finished at 123 for 8, crashing out of playoff contention for the first time in HBL PSL history.
This season’s abrupt end brings down the curtain on one of the most consistent runs in the league’s history.
Peshawar Zalmi, winners in 2017 and finalists four times, had never missed the knockout stage—until now.
They wrapped up their HBL PSL 10 campaign with four wins and six losses, collecting eight points and a net run-rate of -0.293.
The playoff picture is still unfolding, with Karachi Kings and Islamabad United battling later tonight for a crucial spot.
Quetta Gladiators, already through, will face either of the two in the first Qualifier on May 21 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
The winner will march straight into the grand finale of HBL PSL 10.
As fans dissect the reasons behind Zalmi's fall, Shehzad’s rallying cry in support of Babar reminds everyone that cricket remains, above all, a team sport.
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