Did Hasan Ali's 'King Karlega' remark shake Babar Azam's form? Here's why he apologized
Hasan Ali and Babar Azam ¡ª two of Pakistan's cricket stars ¡ª have often been linked as close friends. During the ongoing PSL, Hasan made headlines by speaking about his viral "King Karlega" remark, which is tied to Babar.
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 is in full swing, featuring the country¡¯s top cricket stars alongside international players ¡ª particularly those not involved in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Amid the ongoing matches and press conferences, Pakistan pacer Hasan Ali made headlines when he addressed a question about Babar Azam, offering an apology tied to a viral remark.
Hasan Ali's 'King Karlega' remark
Hasan Ali and Babar Azam ¡ª two big names in Pakistan's cricket fraternity ¡ª have often been linked as good friends. Despite Babar's recent dip in form, both in the last two PSL seasons and in international cricket, the 30-year-old fast bowler continues to back the star batter.
However, many believe after Hasan's now-famous "King Karlega" (The King will accomplish) statement, things haven't quite gone in "Pakistan's King's" favour.
Though originally intended to encourage Babar, the phrase went viral and, over the past couple of years, has ironically been used by fans to troll the batter. Some have even gone so far as to blame Hasan for Babar's dip in form.
Hasan Ali apologises
In a recent post-match press conference following the game between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings, Hasan Ali addressed the talks surrounding his statement.
"If people think saying 'King Karlega' was a mistake, then I apologise to all fans, including Babar," Hasan said.
"He was the best, is the best, and will bounce back soon. Everyone goes through tough times," the pacer added, reaffirming his support for Babar and calling him a world-class player capable of turning things around.
Hasan Ali on King Karlega statement
¡ª ?Imran Siddique (@imransiddique89) April 15, 2025
Babar Azam is our product. If you think I made a mistake by saying 'King Karlega,' I apologize, but the statement remains the same that he is the best. pic.twitter.com/vdPLt1BaTq
Recent PSL performances of the two cricketers
Hasan Ali, who plays for Karachi Kings, recently made a strong comeback after a poor first game. He produced an excellent performance against Lahore Qalandars as he claimed 4/28. Not just that, he also added valuable 27 runs off 25 balls, though his team narrowly lost.
On the other hand, Babar Azam, who is the captain of Peshawar Zalmi, has struggled to find form yet again. He was dismissed for a duck in the opening game against Quetta Gladiators and managed just one run against Islamabad United in his next appearance.
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Karen Noronha is a versatile journalist with a passion for sports and K-pop. With over 7 years of experience at publications like IBTimes UK, DNA, and OTTPlay/DesiMartini, she seamlessly transitions between covering global athletic events and the dynamic world of K-pop.
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