Staff Report
Rawalpindi: Pakistan’s white-ball captain Babar Azam has praised young batters Haider Ali and Abdullah Shafique. The 25-year-old said that he personally likes both of them.
Babar while talking in a pre-series virtual presser, pointed out that both batsmen have different approaches while batting.
“Their future is quite bright. Their techniques are different and I personally like both of them. Haider’s intent is aggressive and plays with a good strike-rate while Abdullah looks to build his innings and then dominate,” Babar said.
Haider and Abdullah are not part of the announced 15-member squad for the first ODI tomorrow.
“The youngster we have our outstanding. I’ll be backing and guide them as per the learnings of my early days of the career,” he added.
The white-ball skipper emphasized that the upcoming ODI against Zimbabwe is the team’s only focus. “Our aim has always been to go step by step. My philosophy is simple, take one series at a time and the current focus is on the ODIs which will be played first. This will be my first series and I will try to apply my experience leading in T20Is to ODIs,” he maintained.
Babar brushed rumors aside that they are not happy in the bio-secure bubble during the Zimbabwe series.
“Facilities are similar to what we were provided in England. All players are happy and enjoying their time. There is no stress and pressure,” he maintained.
It must be noted that Pakistan and Zimbabwe will play three ODIs and as many T20Is at Pindi Cricket Stadium. Both captains posed with the ODI trophy.
