Former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has come out in defence of Babar Azam, criticising the treatment the star batter has received from former cricketers and social media critics.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Azhar said Pakistan has only one genuine superstar batter but argued that Babar has not received the respect he deserves.
Azhar described Babar as a shy and reserved person and said the batter had gone through a difficult period in recent years.
According to Azhar, he spent around five months with Babar while the former captain was away from the Pakistan team following the series against England. He said Babar was particularly disappointed by criticism from former players and commentators on social media.
‘Babar has matured with time’
Azhar acknowledged that Babar has weaknesses and areas where he can improve, but said the batter has become more mature and experienced over time.
He also suggested that Babar appeared more confident when he was leading Pakistan, while criticism after his removal from captaincy sometimes caused him to become more reserved.
“Pakistan has one superstar, but we don’t give him the respect he deserves,” Azhar said while discussing Babar’s position in Pakistan cricket.
Babar has been one of Pakistan’s leading batters across formats and also captained the national side for a significant period.
During his captaincy, Pakistan reached the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup and later progressed to the final of the following edition. Babar’s leadership record also included a win percentage of more than 60% in ODIs, according to the figures cited in the report.
Azhar’s comments come amid continued debate over Babar’s form, leadership and place in Pakistan cricket, with the batter remaining one of the country’s most prominent sporting figures.
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