Babar Azam: Pakistan white-ball captain recalls memorable experiences during ODI World Cup in India

Pakistan's white-ball captain, Babar Azam, recently shared his unexpected yet heartwarming experiences from his time in India during the ODI World Cup, including notable interactions with Indian cricket star Virat Kohli. In a conversation with Zalmi TV, Azam expressed his astonishment at the warm reception and affection he received from Indian fans, something he hadn't anticipated before his arrival.

Azam revealed his initial reservations due to his lack of familiarity with India, saying, “Main India se expect nahi kar raha tha (I was not expecting it from India),” highlighting his surprise at fans chanting his name. “Mai bilkul nahi expect kar raha tha. Main first time ja raha tha India, mujhe wahaan ki koi knowledge nahi thi (I was not expecting it at all. It was my first time in India and I had no knowledge about the country).”

The warmth and welcome extended to the Pakistani team went beyond Azam's expectations, particularly noting the reception at Hyderabad airport as "outstanding." He noted the exceptional love and appreciation from the Indian public throughout the World Cup, stating, “Wo ek alag experience tha. Unka pyar tha, logo ne bahut pyar diya humey, bahut appreciate kiya (It was a different experience altogether. We got so much love from the Indian public, they appreciated our cricket).”

Even practice matches saw stadiums filled to the brim, with Azam recalling, “Humare practice matches mey log aaye yaar, pura stadium packed tha. Hyderabad mey pura stadium packed tha (Even during our practice games, people came to watch us. The entire stadium in Hyderabad was jam-packed).” This support was a testament to the cricket-loving culture in India, where the sport transcends borders.

The atmosphere during the match against India at the Narendra Modi Stadium was notably unique for Azam. He described it as a "different vibe," with the stadium awash in a sea of blue, indicative of the passionate fanbase in India. However, he also acknowledged the exceptional support received at other venues throughout the tournament.

Azam also shared insights into his post-match conversation with Virat Kohli, highlighting the mutual respect and willingness to learn from each other. “I always try and talk to him whenever we play against each other. I always ask him a few questions and he helps me with it. Not only him, I also talk a lot to Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, when we play against Australia and New Zealand, respectively. I had a good chat with Virat Kohli, there are things that we talk about that I can’t share here but it was fruitful.”

On a lighter note, Azam praised Indian cuisine, particularly enjoying Hyderabadi biryani and samosa chaat, which he found unique and delightful.

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