Online trolling and misinformation have become increasingly common in the social media era, with cricketers and other public figures frequently finding themselves at the centre of false claims. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan recently recalled one such incident involving Pakistan star Babar Azam during the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Pathan revealed that a Pakistan journalist had falsely claimed that Babar refused to give him an interview because of his alleged criticism of Pakistan. However, the former India cricketer clarified that the entire story was fabricated and stemmed from a doctored photograph. “The trolling and fake attribution happen every day,” Pathan said on JioHotstar.
According to Pathan, a photograph of a young Bangladeshi journalist, who had approached Babar for an interview but was reportedly denied one, was digitally altered. His face was then placed on the journalist’s body, leading to a false narrative that quickly spread across social media.
ALSO READ: Sai Sudharsan Ruled Out Of Test Series Against Sri Lanka Due To Toe Injury
“The media in our neighbouring country once ran a story claiming that I had gone to interview Babar Azam, and that he refused because, according to him, ‘He trolls our country, so I won’t give him an interview.’ It was a complete lie. Someone had photoshopped my face onto a picture,” Irfan Pathan explained.
He added that the fabricated story received more than a million views, with many people believing it to be genuine. Pathan admitted that such incidents happen regularly but said he prefers not to respond to every false claim. “If you keep responding to everyone, you won’t be able to live your life,” he said.
Irfan Pathan remains one of India’s most accomplished all-rounders. He was part of the team that won the inaugural ICC World T20 in 2007 and produced a match-winning spell in the final against Pakistan.
ALSO READ: Travis Head Wins Back-to-Back Allan Border Medals, Edges Alex Carey By One Vote
Across formats, Pathan claimed 301 international wickets, including nine five-wicket hauls and two 10-wicket hauls. He also scored 2,821 runs, with 11 half-centuries and a highest score of 102. In the IPL, Pathan represented franchises including Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rising Pune Supergiant, and Gujarat Lions. He finished with 80 wickets in 103 matches and scored 1,139 runs in 82 innings.
