Babar Azam Breaks Silence on T20I Future
Babar Azam responded to the rumors circulating about his status on Pakistan’s Twenty20 International team.
Babar Azam, the current captain of Peshawar Zalmi and a former captain of Pakistan, has discussed the recent Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, his future in T20 internationals, and the ongoing controversy surrounding his batting strategy.
Babar responded to the rumors about his spot in Pakistan’s T20I squad in an interview with a local news outlet. He claimed that the coaches and selectors, not him, would make the ultimate choice on his selection.
“Only the coaches and selectors can respond to my questions on my T20 career. Whether it’s in Tests, ODIs, or T20s, my duty is to perform. I have no say in selection. I’ll keep playing as long as Allah wills. We were told that we would be taking a break from T20Is; let’s wait and see what they decide,” Babar added.
Mixed Feelings on Peshawar Zalmi’s PSL 10 Campaign
Babar acknowledged that Peshawar Zalmi has seen inconsistent outcomes when discussing the team’s performance in PSL 10. Although Zalmi got off to a strong start, he claimed they were unable to sustain their pace.
“We attempted to put together a winning combination early on and were successful twice, but we must continue to be consistent. We’ve already lost a number of games in stages, sometimes as a result of bowling and other times as a result of batting, and the tournament is already halfway over,” he remarked.
Fielding Concerns and Strategic Shortcomings
He emphasized the significance of following plans and avoiding errors at crucial times and noted that the team’s fielding has been a weak aspect.
“Specifically, our fielding has fallen short of expectations. We must follow the strategy regardless of the circumstances. However, it’s critical to make sure we don’t drop catches or lose wickets at critical times,” he continued.
Addressing Fan Expectations and Batting Criticism
Although he enjoys batting, Babar admitted that he has not always lived up to the expectations of his fans, who expect him to play longer innings.
“People want me to remain at the crease for a longer period of time. They had big hopes for me. Even while I like playing short innings, I haven’t been able to live up to their expectations by playing longer ones. Cricket is like that; I make mistakes and try to fix them the following time, but then I make another one. The most important thing is your level of focus, and I’m still really concentrated,” he remarked.
Strike Rate Debate and Evolving Game Tactics
Babar also addressed criticism that was frequently leveled at him over his hitting approach and strike rate. Although he acknowledges the demands of contemporary cricket, he said he thinks that players should adapt to the circumstances.
“My game dictates how I play. I am aware that strike rate and aggressive play are hot topics right now. I am aware of cricket’s direction. Everyone already knows what kind of player I am, therefore I don’t need to prove it. I always adjust my play to the demands of the squad and the circumstances. “I understand the significance of strike rate,” he said.
Team-First Mentality in Batting Roles
Additionally, he emphasized how frequently he has changed his batting position for the team, emphasizing that he has always prioritized the needs of the team.
“I’ve switched batting positions more than anyone else. Babar is the one who changes his number whenever someone fresh enters. I alternate between opening and going to number three. Pakistan is the first priority for me. I opened because the franchise wanted me to. Then, wherever Pakistan needs me, I play,” he declared.
“As an opener, I’ve never had any personal objectives. In Test cricket, I’ve even opened. I began at number six and worked my way up to the opening position. I’ve never stated that I won’t play a particular position because it might have an impact on my performance. Depending on what the club needs, I’m willing to play at any number,” he continued.
Letting Performance Speak on the Field
Babar added that he would rather let his on-field exploits speak for themselves. Working hard is more important to him than reacting to criticism off the field.
“I would rather let my game speak on the field than say a lot. Everyone can talk; I know how to talk. However, self-respect is as important. I’ve learned to respect everyone from my elders. My attention is on my work on the ground. Even though I put in a lot of effort on the field, I’m never happy with how I do. I was never completely satisfied, even when I was at the top of the rankings. After doing well, I always look ahead and consider my country,” he stated.
Babar’s Passion for ODI Cricket
Regarding alternating between forms, Babar stated that he doesn’t believe his ODI performance has been impacted by T20 cricket. He has given some of his best performances in ODI cricket, which he still regards highly.
“ODI cricket is a patience test. The format has its own pace and significance, even when teams are scoring more than 350 runs. I’ve always loved playing ODI cricket, and I’ve played some of my best,” he said.
Babar concluded by praising the Pakistan Super League’s standards, stating that even with a few lackluster games, the league still maintains a high caliber, particularly when it comes to quick bowling.
“The PSL is still a premier league. Overall, the quality hasn’t decreased, even though some matchups might not have received as much attention. Because the bowling standard is so high—every team has bowlers who can reach speeds of over 145 km/h—foreign players really try to play here,” he said.
FAQs
What did Babar Azam say about his future in Pakistan’s T20I team?
Babar stated that his T20I selection depends on the coaches and selectors, not him. He added, “I’ll keep playing as long as Allah wills,” and mentioned that players were informed about taking a break from T20Is.
How does Babar Azam respond to criticism about his batting style and strike rate?
Babar acknowledged that strike rate and aggression are hot topics but emphasized that his game is adapted to match conditions. He said, “I understand the significance of strike rate, but I play according to the team’s needs.”
What are Babar Azam’s views on his role in the batting order?
Babar emphasized his flexibility, saying he’s changed positions frequently for the team—from opening to number three, and even starting at number six in Tests. “Wherever Pakistan needs me, I play,” he affirmed.
How did Babar Azam assess Peshawar Zalmi’s performance in PSL 10?
He admitted the team had an inconsistent run, blaming lapses in fielding, bowling, and batting. He stressed the need for consistency and better execution of plans in crucial moments.
What does Babar Azam think about the quality of the Pakistan Super League (PSL)?
Despite a few low-profile matches, Babar praised the PSL’s overall standards, especially highlighting the world-class fast bowling, with bowlers clocking over 145 km/h, attracting international players.
Where I can watch PSL 10 for free and in HD Quality?
You can watch PSL 10 for FREE & in HD quality, only on myco!
