In the buildup to the highly anticipated Pakistan vs New Zealand five-match T20I series commencing on January 12, 2024, star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has expressed his unwavering support for former captain Babar Azam amid discussions about the latter’s recent dip in form across all formats.
Azam’s performance in Tests during 2023 has been a topic of concern, having played nine innings and amassed a total of only 204 runs, with a highest score of 41. In ODIs, Babar showcased better form, featuring in 24 matches and accumulating 1065 runs at an impressive average of 46.30. Notably, his highest score of 151 came against the underdog team Nepal during the Asia Cup. The T20Is in 2023 saw Babar Azam contributing 130 runs from four matches, with a noteworthy high score of 101* against New Zealand.
Shaheen Shah Afridi class Babar ‘main batter’
Despite these statistics, Shaheen, who assumed the T20I captaincy after Babar’s resignation following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, staunchly defended his teammate. Shaheen emphasized,
“I don’t think Babar’s form is declining; one or two innings don’t make a difference. He is our best batter. He has scored so many runs that I can’t count them.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand, Mohammad Rizwan will serve as the vice-captain under Afridi’s leadership. Shaheen expressed his pride in leading the Pakistan team, noting the team’s strong performances in T20 cricket. Reflecting on previous major events, he acknowledged the challenges faced in the World Cup 2022 final against England and the 2021 semifinal against Australia, stating,
“Playing semi-finals and finals of the World Cup is not easy. We made minor mistakes, but we will make efforts to not repeat them.”
Shaheen Afridi, acknowledging the infusion of new and returning players in the New Zealand series squad, emphasized the team’s commitment to providing opportunities for all members. This series serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Cup in 2024, to be held in the USA and West Indies. As the squad strives for improved results, Shaheen remains optimistic about their competitiveness in the preparatory series and beyond.
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Shahid Afridi criticizes Babar Azam’s captaincy
