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Babar Azam Labelled 'Zimbu' By Shaheen Afridi In Multan Test? Shocking Video Leaves Fans Stunned

Babar Azam was allegedly mocked as 'Zimbu' by Shaheen Afridi [Source: @Abhisar1207, @ipagshah00/ x.com]Babar Azam was allegedly mocked as 'Zimbu' by Shaheen Afridi [Source: @Abhisar1207, @ipagshah00/ x.com]

In an unexpected turn of events, a rift seems to be widening between Pakistan's cricket mainstays, Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. A video circulating on social media has fans and experts buzzing, as it allegedly shows Shaheen using the nickname “Zimbu” for Babar – a label fans have coined for him when criticizing his performances, particularly against lower-ranked teams.

Mockery in Multan as Shaheen Afridi Allegedly Calls Babar Azam ‘Zimbu’

While the footage lacks audio, the visual cues in Shaheen's expressions have only stoked the flames, sparking an array of speculations about the relationship between Pakistan’s star players.

The nickname "Zimbu," a playful jab that merges "Zimbabwe" with Babar’s name, has gained traction among fans and, reportedly, even made its way into the Pakistan dressing room as a lighthearted yet biting tease.

Fans have often voiced disappointment over Babar's struggles against top Test sides, with the lack of a Test century since December 2022 being the thorn in their side. As fate would have it, this was evident in Pakistan's current first Test against England, where Babar’s search for substantial runs continued, scoring just 30 and 5 in his innings.

When Shaheen calling Babar ‘Zimbu’ was caught on video, it sent ripples across the cricket world. As the footage made rounds online, many began to question the unity within the Pakistani camp. Some fans speculated that Shaheen's alleged remark hinted at a broader disconnect, especially with Babar's captaincy woes shadowing the team.

England In The Driver’s Seat To Win 1st Test in Multan

Meanwhile, with Pakistan trailing England’s colossal 823-7 declared and facing a daunting innings defeat, tensions within the team appear to be running high. England’s Harry Brook, with a blistering 317, and Joe Root’s mammoth 262 set the stage for a seemingly unassailable lead of 267 runs.

Pakistan, under tremendous pressure, was struggling at 152-6 at close on the penultimate day, still 115 runs adrift from forcing England to bat again. As the series opener in Multan swings heavily in England's favour, Pakistan’s cricket camp is not only battling a formidable opponent on the field but also perhaps wrestling with inner turmoil off it.

Adding fuel to the fire, this so-called “Zimbu” saga comes at a crucial time for Pakistan cricket. Shaheen Afridi, previously appointed T20 captain, was recently replaced by Babar ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024, a move that stirred the rumour mill. 

While Babar has since stepped down, with Pakistan yet to name a successor, it seems that leadership changes and performance pressures are taking a toll on team harmony.

As Pakistan’s hopes hang by a thread, fans are left to wonder: will the "Zimbu" mockery create an unbridgeable rift? Or can the team rally back from the brink? 

With eyes on the final day’s play of the first PAK vs ENG Test, Pakistan cricket finds itself in hot water, both on and off the pitch, as England closes in on a potential innings win in the City of Saints.