Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has ignited a storm of controversy with his recent claim that the International Cricket Council (ICC) might be intentionally sabotaging Babar Azam‘s career. This audacious statement, made in the wake of Babar’s continued reign as the world’s number one ODI batter despite a prolonged absence from the format, has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity.

The Babar Azam conundrum

Babar’s meteoric rise to the pinnacle of ODI batting has been nothing short of extraordinary. His elegant strokeplay and consistent run-scoring have made him a darling of the cricket-watching public. However, the fact that he has maintained his top ranking without playing an ODI since November 2023 has raised eyebrows.

Basit’s contention is that the ICC’s ranking system is flawed and that it is somehow benefiting from keeping Babar at the top, regardless of his recent performances. This claim has naturally sparked a heated debate among fans, experts, and former cricketers alike.

“When I saw the ICC ranking (ODI batters), Babar Azam was at the top, number two was Rohit Sharma, number three was Shubman Gill, and then there was Virat Kohli at number four. I did not find it necessary to read the remaining names because I couldn’t see Travis Head and Rachin Ravindra. I think the ICC wants that Babar doesn’t perform. He would be happy with being the number one-ranked batter in ODIs. Who gives these rankings? On what basis are Babar Azam and Shubman Gill there? The people at ICC are Babar Azam’s enemies. If you asked Babar who is the current number one, he would also pick Travis Head or Virat Kohli. Even he wouldn’t say that he is the number one,” said Basit as quoted by CricketPakistan.

The ICC ranking system under scrutiny

The ICC’s ranking system has often been a subject of discussion and debate. Critics argue that it doesn’t accurately reflect a player’s current form and that it is heavily influenced by the strength of opposition. The case of Babar has only served to amplify these criticisms.

While some argue that the ranking system should be more dynamic, others defend the ICC, stating that it is a complex algorithm that takes into account a player’s entire career and not just recent performances.

Irrespective of the merits of Basit’s claims, there is no denying that the controversy surrounding Babar’s ranking has put immense pressure on the Pakistani captain. The expectations from him are sky-high, and any dip in form is magnified.

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