Babar Azam sues journalist for 1 billion over match-fixing claims tied to Audi

Babar Azam, captain of Pakistan’s Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 team, has taken legal action against journalist Mubasher Lucman by issuing a Rs. 1 billion defamation notice. This step comes after Lucman made serious allegations of match-fixing against Azam on social media.

Azam initiated the defamation case in response to allegations accusing him and his teammates of match-fixing. Lucman claimed Azam received expensive gifts like an Audi E-Tron and luxury apartments in Australia and Dubai, suggesting these were bribes that influenced their performance, notably in a match against T20 World Cup 2024 newcomers, the USA.

Azam’s legal representatives have demanded a public apology from Lucman, warning of further legal measures if the apology is not provided. The situation highlights the intense scrutiny and criticism faced by the Pakistani cricket team and its management following their disappointing showing in the T20 World Cup 2024.

Assistant coach Azhar Mahmood also responded strongly to the allegations, expressing distress on social media about the harassment he and his family endured due to these unfounded claims. The aftermath of Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament has triggered a wave of unverified accusations targeting players and coaches alike.