Babar Azam, the esteemed all-format captain of Pakistan’s cricket team, has gained even more respect from fans and fellow players alike after taking a principled stand against promoting betting companies. Azam has made it clear that he will not wear the logo of a betting company on his jersey during the Lanka Premier League 2023.
Reports suggest that the Lahore-born cricketer has already informed his team, the Colombo Strikers, about his decision, and the franchise has wholeheartedly supported him. This gesture by Azam showcases his strong character and unwavering commitment to his values.
Earlier this year, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi also declined to wear a shirt featuring the logo of a betting company during the Legends League Cricket (LLC) in Qatar. This trend of cricketers refusing to promote betting companies demonstrates the growing awareness among players about the potential negative impact of such associations.
In another notable incident, during the PSL, Mohammad Rizwan showcased his integrity by refusing to wear a shirt displaying the logo of Wolf777 News, the tournament’s sponsor. These acts of defiance against promoting gambling highlight the players’ determination to prioritize their principles over commercial endorsements.
In addition to his stand against the betting company’s logo, Babar Azam is making waves in the cricketing world with his exceptional skills. He has been selected as the captain of the Colombo Strikers for the Lanka Premier League and will also be leading the Pakistan national side in the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka later this month.
The Lanka Premier League is scheduled to be held at three different venues: Hambantota, Colombo, and Kandy. This highly anticipated tournament will witness some of the biggest cricketing stars, including David Miller, Matthew Wade, Shakib Al Hasan, and Tabraiz Shamsi, who, like Azam, directly signed contracts before the auction.
It is worth mentioning that the defending champions, the Jaffna Kings, will be looking to retain their title in this fourth edition of the tournament. With Babar Azam’s exceptional leadership skills and his strong moral compass, the Colombo Strikers are poised to be a formidable force in the competition.
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Babar Azam’s refusal to wear the logo of a betting company is a testament to his integrity and his ability to stand up for what he believes in. His actions not only earn him the respect of his fans but also set an example for other athletes to prioritize their values over lucrative sponsorships. Babar Azam continues to inspire cricket enthusiasts around the world, both on and off the field.
