Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan reckoned that Babar Azam does not like too much ‘chopping and changing” in the national team. He said that the Pakistan skipper backs the players he has faith in and gives them confidence even when they are not performing.
Shadab Khan, who is the skipper of Islamabad United, is currently quarantining in Abu Dhabi ahead of PSL 2021, resuming later this month. Shadab, in an interview with Cricket Pakistan, shed light on Azam’s leadership style.
“Sometimes, players you have high hopes on don’t perform, and you have to get strict. That’s how a team is built. But Azam gives a lot of confidence to such players, which is very helpful, because if you keep making changes, then you cannot build a proper team. He always backs a trusted set of players,” the 22-year-old said.
Speaking on his personal equation with Babar Azam, Shadab Khan further suggested that he provides his inputs to the 27-year-old and tries to chip in whenever possible. He added that both he and Babar want to bring the best out of the team.
“Our careers began almost simultaneously. He started a little early but was struggling a bit then. But by the time I came in, he was performing really well. We are on very good terms with each other, and we always discuss cricket and our cricket-related issues with each other,” he stated.
“Our effort remains that whatever team is selected, the final decision is arrived at mutually. Of course, Azam has to lead the side, so he takes decisions accordingly. He always takes suggestions, and I try my best to give him proper inputs. At the end of the day, the team must benefit,” he added.
Shadab, who has been struggling with form and fitness in recent times, picked up a toe injury while batting in the second ODI against South Africa in Johannesburg, last month. Though he admitted he is going through a rough patch, Shadab said he is looking forward to redeeming himself and performing well in PSL 2021 to regain some rhythm.