Former New Zealand cricketer Simon Doull was recently under fire for his constant criticism of Pakistan captain Babar Azam’s batting in the ongoing PSL 2023 tournament. This was evident during the PSL match between Peshawar Zalmi and Quetta Gladiators.
Babar Azam scored a brilliant century in the match. However, Doull duly noted that the Peshawar Zalmi captain took 16 balls to move from 80 to 100, and though his side put up a mammoth 240-2, Doull suggested he should have kept attacking as he approached his milestone.
“Hundreds are great, stats are brilliant, but it still must be team first,” he said, with his comments appearing prescient as Quetta Gladiators chased down the total with 10 balls to spare.
Babar made 73 off 39 in his next game as Peshawar Zalmi again made it to 240 and again lost, this time to Multan Sultans. Doull, speaking after that game, explained how, in his opinion, Babar is “the best player in the world”, but that his “intent” could be a concern.
For his comments, Simon Doull faced vicious abuse on social media from Babar Azam’s fans and this led to him having a chat with Babar during the game against Islamabad United. Notably, Babar did not play the game due to illness.
"I don't need to say what was said but it was good. Lots of respect from both sides and it was really good. He [Babar] wasn't feeling at his best," Doull said during commentary in conversation with Daren Sammy and Sana Mir.
However, Sana Mir took a dig at Doull and said: "Was it (Babar not feeling well) before the chat or after?" To this, Doull, Ganga, and Mir shared a huge laugh.
"I did actually let his talk at some stage too. I mean this is not about me," Doull replied.
Mir then trolled Doull by saying: "I don't believe you."
Here is the whole conversation:
