Last Update on: November 16th, 2023 at 01:53 pm
Pakistan all-rounder Imad Wasim and former cricketer Mohammad Amir made bold claims about ace batter Babar Azam’s future in the shorter format of the game. Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir stated that Babar doesn’t deserve a place in Pakistan’s T20I side.
Babar Azam represented the Pakistan cricket team in 104 T20I matches, scoring 3485 runs at an impressive average of 41.49. The right-handed batter has smashed three centuries and 30 half-centuries. However, Babar’s strike rate (128.41) and slow approach were criticized.
It Is A Tough Call, But – Imad Wasim
Speaking on a local news channel, Imad Wasim emphasized that Babar Azam might not deserve a spot in the T20I squad, expressing that the decision is a “tough call.” Mohammad Amir echoed Imad’s sentiment, stating that Babar doesn’t deserve a spot in Pakistan’s T20I squad.
“It is a tough call but Babar doesn’t deserve a place in T20,” Imad said.
“Babar doesn’t deserve to be in T20,” Amir echoed Imad’s sentiment.
Babar Azam holds the record for the most wins as captain in the shorter format, securing the 42nd win out of 71 matches under his leadership. The 29-year-old shares the top spot with former England captain Eoin Morgan and former Afghanistan captain Asghar Afghan.
Babar Azam Is Truly A World-Class Player – Zaka Ashraf
Shaheen Shah Afridi has been appointed as the new captain of Pakistan’s T20I team, replacing Babar Azam. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made an announcement on Wednesday, November 15, following Pakistan’s early exit from the World Cup 2023 group stage.
“Babar Azam is truly a world-class player and we want him to continue to thrive as a player. He is one of the best batters Pakistan has ever produced. He is our asset, and we will continue to support him. His batting prowess is a testament to his dedication and skill. He is a role model for the present generation,” Ashraf said.
“We want to see him grow as a great batter and now without his additional burden of the captaincy, he can focus more on his performances to reach even greater heights. We respect his decision and will continue to back him,” he added.
The Men in Green’s next T20I assignment is against New Zealand in a five-match T20I series, scheduled to begin on January 12, 2024, in Auckland. The team will play more T20I matches next year as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Also read: Babar Azam Quits Pakistan Captaincy After World Cup Disaster
