Pakistani Cricketers Perform Umrah Amidst Criticism
Pakistan’s star cricketers Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were recently seen in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, performing Umrah. A video circulating on social media shows both players having a meal with Naseem Shah’s father, dressed in traditional attire.
Both Babar and Rizwan have been under scrutiny following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy 2025, which led to an early exit from the tournament. However, after completing their religious journey, they are set to return to action for the upcoming tour of New Zealand.
Pakistan’s Poor Show in Champions Trophy 2025
Pakistan’s performance in the Champions Trophy 2025 fell short of expectations, especially with the tournament being hosted in the country for the first time in 29 years. The Men in Green failed to defend their title, leading to immense disappointment among fans.
Babar Azam scored 60 and 23 in the two matches he played, while Mohammad Rizwan managed just 3 and 46 runs. Their inability to deliver strong performances contributed significantly to Pakistan’s premature exit from the competition.
Mohammad Rizwan Removed as White-Ball Captain
In the aftermath of Pakistan’s poor results, Mohammad Rizwan has been removed from the white-ball captaincy. Ahead of Pakistan’s tour to New Zealand—comprising a three-match ODI series and a five-match T20I series—this decision was taken due to his struggles as a leader.
Under Rizwan’s captaincy, Pakistan suffered heavy defeats in T20I series against Australia and South Africa. Though he remains part of the squad for the shortest format, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has opted for a leadership change to revive the team’s fortunes.
