Sun Feb 23 09:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Babar Azam’s Absence Fuels Speculation Ahead of Crucial Pakistan-India Clash

**Dubai, UAE –** Pakistan’s star batsman Babar Azam’s absence from Saturday’s training session has sparked intense speculation about his availability for Sunday’s crucial Champions Trophy match against India. Azam’s absence, unexplained by interim coach Aqib Javed beyond a claim of rest, comes after heavy criticism for his slow innings in Pakistan’s opening loss to New Zealand. The team’s fate hangs in the balance; a loss to India would eliminate them from the tournament.

Adding to the tension, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi met with the team, urging a victory at all costs to silence critics. Naqvi, reportedly unhappy with team selection, held individual conversations with players, including captain Mohammad Rizwan and star pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf, emphasizing the need for a strong performance against India. While Naqvi publicly expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, Azam’s absence casts a significant shadow over Pakistan’s chances. The match, being played in Dubai due to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan over security concerns, holds immense significance for both teams.

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