PHOTO: TWITTER
Following PCB president Najam Sethi’s conditional backing for Babar Azam’s captaincy, Pakistan’s famous captain Imran Khan has heaped praise on Babar.
Khan, a former cricketer who captained Pakistan to World Cup victory in 1992, described Babar as an amazing hitter, emphasizing his batting skills.
“Our captain [Babar Azam] is an outstanding batter. I have seen a batter of such quality after a very long time. I have analysed him in every way, because I analyse batter through a bowler’s lens,” stated the politician-turned-cricketer.
He also praised Babar for possessing the three attributes, which he described as “rare to find”.
“His technique, talent and temperament are all brilliant. It is very rare to find all three of these things in one batsman, but he has them all. He has the potential to go ahead of everyone,” he added.
Imran had also stated late last year that he was impressed with Babar and advocated that he be named captain of the Pakistan squad.
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting previously claimed that Azam’s finest batting and captaincy form is yet ahead of him.
“I think Babar’s still got a little bit of improvement to come, which is a pretty scary thought with what he’s been able to do, pretty much across all three formats over the last three, four years,” Ponting remarked this after Babar Azam was named ICC Cricketer of the Year for the first time and ODI Cricketer of the Year for the second year in a row.
“I love watching him play. I think there’s some room for improvement, let’s hope we see it. I’m sure with a bit more experience under his belt, like he’s done with his batting, I’m sure he’ll find the right way to lead and be a very successful captain of Pakistan.”
Meanwhile, Azam stated that Ponting’s words boosted his confidence.
“You get confidence when a legendary player gives you a compliment and you try to be better,” the captain told ICC Digital.
“When such a huge player passes positive comments, it adds to your confidence and you have it in your mind that such a huge player is talking good about you.”
“Because these players have been through a similar stage so they know what mindset I have. They have been through similar scenarios and have knowledge of the game.”
“So yes, I try to take these comments in a positive way and try to produce my best.”