# Irfan Pathan says Pakistani media used fake Babar Azam story

2026-08-08T10:42:59+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has revealed how Pakistani media fabricated a story about Pakistan captain Babar Azam refusing an interview with him. Pathan said the report claimed Babar declined because of his alleged criticism of Pakistan. The story used a doctored image of Pathan's face placed on a Bangladeshi reporter's body. The fake report got over a million views, Pathan said on JioHotstar's Cheeky Singles programme. Pathan said misinformation and trolling happen daily but he avoids responding to every lie. The original picture showed a young Bangladeshi reporter who was refused an interview by Babar. Pathan added that Pakistani fans often target him, especially during India-Pakistan matches.

## Coverage

- news.abplive.com <https://news.abplive.com/sports/cricket/irfan-pathan-defamation-using-fake-babar-azam-story-pakistan-media-world-cup-1861039>
- timesnownews.com <https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/cricket/irfan-pathan-exposes-fake-babar-azam-claim-with-blunt-response-they-photoshopped-my-face-article-155386305>
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/it-was-a-complete-lie-babar-azam-refused-irfan-pathan-interview-heres-what-happened/articleshow/133050198.cms>

Tags: Babar Azam, Cricket, fake news, Irfan Pathan, misinformation, Pakistani media
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