Zaka Ashraf's alleged audio leak shows how Babar Azam was removed from captaincy

The challenges for the Chairman managing Committee Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Zaka Ashraf, seem to be escalating, as a recently alleged leaked audio clip has surfaced, purporting to reveal the main factor behind the decision to strip Babar Azam of the captaincy in all formats.

The 2-minute and 15-second audio recording shared by sports journalist Qadir Khawaja is circulating widely on social media platforms, purportedly featuring Ashraf disclosing the PCB's strategy to oust Babar, among other revelations.

The alleged leak reveals key reason behind the removal of Babar from captaincy. A voice believed to be of Zaka can be heard saying “Hassan Ali remains part of Pakistani squad because of his friendship with Babar Azam.”

Zaka Ashraf then blamed a person Talha as an agent who according to him controlled 8 national team players. Talha holds good ties with even families of Pakistani team players, and players took his advise before getting his permission.

Dialogue Pakistan cannot confirm the authenticity of the audio leak going viral on social platforms.