Wasim Akram Criticizes Babar Azam After Pakistan's England Test Loss

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram has publicly criticized current Test captain Babar Azam following the team's 3-0 series defeat in England, focusing on Babar's admission that he was unaware of major mid-tour changes to the squad and coaching staff. The criticism stems from events during the series, which concluded with a loss in the third Test on September 13, 2026. After the second Test at Lord's, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) removed head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, and also sent seven players home from the tour. Prior to the third Test in Birmingham, Babar Azam stated that these sweeping changes were "news to him" and that he had not been informed. Speaking at an event in Manchester, Wasim Akram questioned Babar's leadership and awareness. "Babar Azam said he did not know. If you don't know, then what were you doing here? Were you here to sell chickpeas?" Akram said. He added, "As a player or as a person, I believe that if your leader or captain does not stand by you, you cannot give 100 per cent." Akram argued that Babar should not have accepted the Test captaincy when appointed in July 2026 to replace Shan Masood.