Back in 2023, Babar Azam found himself at the centre of an unusual AI moment after his voice was reportedly replicated in multiple viral, AI-generated videos circulating across social media.
The trend had already started picking up pace online, but things took a more personal turn during a pre-departure press conference ahead of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, where he was directly asked about the growing use of his synthetic voice in fan-made content.
Responding with a mix of surprise and caution, Babar admitted that while he had seen the AI-generated songs and videos, it initially unsettled him to hear his own voice being recreated in so many different ways. And now, another AI-generated clip has appeared, this time prompting reactions not just from Babar but also from teammates like Salman Ali Agha and Naseem Shah, who also found themselves reacting to the increasingly realistic-and sometimes unsettling-use of AI in cricket fan content.
How Babar Azam and PAK Teammates Reacted to the AI-Generated Song
A viral Twitter video showed Babar Azam's AI-generated voice singing "Tumhe Dillagi Bhul Jani Padegi" by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, sparking a light-hearted and surprised reaction from Babar along with teammates Salman Ali Agha and Naseem Shah. And the video even had a stamp which said, 'Ustad Babar Nusrat.' The trio appeared amused as they responded to how realistically the AI had mimicked Babar's voice.
During the clip, Babar can be heard reacting directly, saying, "No, I sing. Why wouldn't I sing? But this voice is not mine," while also jokingly adding, "I don't think he can sing better than me." His teammates also joined in the banter, with remarks like, "His voice is better than him," and "He should try singing once," as they laughed through parts of the AI-generated track.
The discussion also touched on how frequently AI versions of songs featuring cricketers have been circulating online, with Babar noting, "They have already used my voice in all sorts of ways." This moment comes during the Pakistan vs Australia ODI series, adding a humorous off-field subplot to the build-up as fans once again reacted to the growing reach of AI in cricket entertainment.
Why Babar Azam's AI Version of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's 'Tumhe Dillagi' is Trending Online
This video comes when Pakistan is facing Australia in the ODI series and lead with 1-0. Pakistan made a strong start to the ODI series against Australia, securing a five-wicket win as they chased down 201 with 24 balls remaining. The chase was built around a calm and controlled innings from Babar Azam, who held things together with a fluent 69 off 94 balls, ensuring Pakistan never lost control of the target.
His composed effort anchored the innings at a crucial stage, guiding Pakistan through the chase with steady partnerships around him. With wickets in hand and the required rate always in check, the hosts wrapped up the win comfortably to take a 1-0 lead in the series.