'Country Comes First...': After R Ashwin, Ex-Pakistan Star's Brutal Take On Babar Azam

Former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has slammed Babar Azam for prioritising personal milestones over team success and expressed concerns about Pakistan's preparations ahead of their marquee Champions Trophy clash against India in Dubai on Sunday. The former Pakistan captain, who recently lost his ODI No. 1 ranking to Shubman Gill, was blamed for his slow knock of 64 off 90 balls in the Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand. His inability to accelerate the run rate and dismissal in the crucial 34th over contributed to Pakistan's 60-run defeat, putting their title defence in jeopardy. Kaneria pointed out Pakistan's struggling batting lineup, accusing Azam of focusing more on his individual performance than the team's success.

"If we talk about Babar Azam, he is playing for himself. When he is under pressure, he focuses on keeping his stats and ICC ranking intact," Kaneria told PTI Video.

"I have scored a fifty, I have done it. But where is the intent of winning the match for your side?", Kaneria questioned.

He credited Salman Agha (42 off 28 balls) and Khushdil Shah (69; 49b) for their impactful knocks, which helped Pakistan avoid an even bigger defeat.

"Salman Ali Agha and Khushdil Shah played great knocks, if those two boys hadn't scored quickly, then Pakistan would have lost by 100 runs, instead of losing by 60 runs.

"If you play, play for the country, the country comes first. Show a little intent...But unfortunately, Babar couldn't do that", he said.

The 44-year-old further expressed concerns about Pakistan's readiness for the crucial clash against India.

"The scenario is crystal clear. I don't think there is much hype this time because Pakistan is not playing good cricket. India are playing excellent