FINALLY! Babar Azam goes shopping in India

KOLKATA: After categorically denying shopping rumours, Pakistani skipper Babar Azam went on a buying spree in the Indian city of Kolkata ahead of the team's presumably last World Cup 2023 match against England on November 11 (tomorrow).

The Green Shirts captain, along with the team's opener Imam-ul-Haq, visited Kolkata's South City Mall on Thursday to shop for themselves and buy gifts for their families back home.

During their outing, Babar bought sarees for his family members while consulting with them on a video call with the duo later buying sunglasses and clothes.

Babar's shopping-related activities come as earlier the skipper — via his representative agency — had “vehemently” denied Indian media reports claiming that the Green Shirts' skipper had bought jewellery and clothes — including a designer sherwani worth 700,000 Indian rupees.

"We vehemently reject the utterly false reports circulating on certain media platforms suggesting that Kaptaan Babar Azam engaged in clothing and jewellery shopping in India [...] We categorically refute these baseless claims," the statement from the Saya Corporation read.

It is to be noted that previously, Pakistani players Usama Mir, Mohammad Haris, and Wasim Jr ventured into a shopping mall conveniently located near their team hotel.

The shopping extravaganza took place at the bustling Mani Square, where the players explored a variety of items on offer.

The presence of Pakistani cricketers in the mall created a buzz among shoppers and cricket enthusiasts alike as the locals couldn't contain their excitement as they witnessed Pakistani players stars strolling through the mall.

During their visit, the cricketers received warm wishes and support from the local crowd, who expressed their hope for the national side's success in the upcoming match.

Abdullah Shafique and Zaman Khan were also spotted enjoying the shopping experience in Kolkata.

Shafique and Mir, in a charming gesture, purchased sarees for their family members. Meanwhile, Zaman Khan, Haris, and Wasim couldn't resist the temptation to buy some stylish clothing for themselves.

It is worth mentioning that New Zealand's win against Sri Lanka yesterday has made Pakistan's path to the World Cup semi-finals — which was already difficult — nearly impossible as they require a massive win over England in their last match.

If Pakistan bat first against England, they would have to beat them by 287 runs.

If Pakistan bowls first, they need to dismiss England for 50 runs and chase the target in two overs or 100 runs in three overs.