Pakistani cricketer Babar Azam has decided not to wear a Lanka Premier League (LPL) shirt with the eye-catching betting logo as a sign of his unwavering commitment to his Islamic beliefs.
The long-awaited 4th LPL is scheduled to run from 30 July to 22 August, with Azam leading his side of the Colombo Strikers throughout the tournament. However, his refusal to wear a jersey with the betting logo shows his determination to uphold Islamic values.
Recently Colombo Strikers reached an agreement with a betting company that resulted in their logo being printed on their jerseys. However, Babar Azam, who recently completed a Hajj pilgrimage, chose not to undermine Islamic values by wearing the logo-printed shirt, stating it’s prohibited in Islam.
The incredible cricketer’s bold decision drew widespread attention and admiration from fans, teammates, and religious ulemas alike. Additionally, the Colombo Strikers team respected Babar Azam’s attitude and acknowledged his right to uphold his religious values.
This mutual understanding between players and teams reflects a commendable demonstration of religious tolerance and recognition of individual beliefs in the context of professional sports.
The famous and the most adored cricketer, Babar Azam’s refusal to promote the betting logo goes beyond cricket. This is a reminder that personal integrity and adherence to Islamic values are also very important when faced with professional opportunities. His stance highlights the importance of staying true to his Islamic principles and the potential impact that athletes can have in promoting ethical behavior.
For Babar, the decision not to wear the betting logo not only represents a refusal to gamble but also highlights the delicate balance between Islam and career. This inspires athletes who may be facing a similar dilemma, encouraging them to put their Islam first in place.
When Babar Azam will take the field, he will not only be representing his team but also the values of integrity and devotion to Islam that guide his actions, setting an example for others to follow.
