Pakistan cricket team captain Babar Azam returned to Lahore from Dubai via a private airline after a disappointing performance in the 2023 World Cup.

Pakistan national cricket team captain Babar Azam returned to Lahore from Dubai on a private airline after the World Cup debacle in India.

Babar Azam was accompanied by other Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) staff at the Lahore airport in the early hours of Monday. On this occasion, the fans who had gathered to welcome the captain chanted slogans in favor of the team.

When Babar Azam arrived at the airport, he received a warm welcome and a crowd chanted “Pakistan Zindabad”.

Besides Babar Azam, other cricket board officials were also present, including the team manager of the Pakistan cricket team.

When Babar Azam landed on home soil, the reception was noticeably muted compared to the festive and celebratory greetings that accompany successful campaigns.

The disappointment over Pakistan's exit from the World Cup appears to have cast a shadow over the return of the team captain, who failed to lead the team to the semi-finals.

At the airport, the crowd did spot Babar Azam, but given the enthusiasm for the Pakistan captain, it was inherently humiliating.

The lukewarm reception also reflects the sentiments of cricket enthusiasts and fans who had high hopes for Pakistan's World Cup journey. Social media platforms are abuzz with discussions, analysis and criticism of the team's performance.

The disappointment is noticeable, but in the midst of it all there are also voices that recognize the achievements of individual players.