Pakistan’s Interim Coach Aaqib Javed Backs Babar Azam Amid Criticism
Despite facing criticism from former players, Pakistan’s interim coach Aaqib Javed has expressed unwavering support for Babar Azam, who is set to continue opening the batting alongside Fakhar Zaman in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. This decision comes in the wake of the injury to Saim Ayub and Babar’s unimpressive performance during the recent tri-series.
Babar managed to score only 62 runs across three matches in the tri-series, with scores of 10, 23, and 29, leading to doubts about his capability as an opener. However, Javed remains confident in Babar’s potential to excel. “Our rationale behind the change was that Babar had to bat in the first over during the away series against South Africa. With Saim injured, we wanted our best batter to make good use of the powerplay,” Javed elaborated.
Pakistan faced a setback in the tri-series, losing to New Zealand by five wickets, marking their second defeat in three matches. However, Aaqib is optimistic about the team’s chances in the Champions Trophy, stating, “If this team bats normally, we can score 350. With the right bowlers in form, we have everything we need to defeat any team.”
As the Champions Trophy approaches, Pakistan will kick off their campaign against New Zealand on February 19. Aaqib emphasized the importance of having a balanced team, incorporating both spin and pace all-rounders like Khushdil Shah and Faheem Ashraf.
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