Last Update on: August 30th, 2023 at 10:21 am
Pakistan skipper, Babar Azam opened up on the Men in Green’s voyage in the Asia Cup 2023 and said that being the number one ODI team in the world gives him more confidence rather than feeling the pressure.
Babar Azam-led side thrashed Afghanistan in a three-game 50-over series following which the Men in Green became the number one side in the ODI format.
In the three-game series, Pakistan whitewashed their opponent and displayed a quality performance which helped them to confidence.
Meanwhile, the 28-year-old skipper also showcased a stellar performance against Afghanistan which made him the number one batsman in the 50-over format.
While speaking in a press conference before the start of the Asia Cup 2023, the Men in Green skipper said that there is pressure on the team rather than the squad is assertive to start the Asia Cup 2023 with a quality performance.
Babar added by praising the whole team for giving their best to achieve the remarkable feat of being the number one ODI team.
“I would not say that there is a pressure. Rather, we enter this tournament with more confidence. This team has put in a lot of hard work and effort over the last few years and we achieving the top spot is a testimony of it,” Babar said.
The Pakistani skipper added that the next few months will be crucial for the country as they are eyeing to win both the Asia Cup 2023 and ODI World Cup.
“The job, however, is not done as we want to win the Asia Cup and the World Cup. We have some competitive and exciting next few months lined up and we are eager to do well for our country,” Babar Azam added.
Every player in this side wants to win matches for his country: Babar Azam
The 28-year-old skipper stated that the whole squad wants to achieve big things for their country and they are ready to give their best to overcome difficult situations.
Azam further last few months has built the momentum of the squad which will help them in the upcoming series.
“Every player in this side wants to win matches for his country and raises their hand. They are always ready to put in the hard yards and never shy away from tough and difficult situations. We have had some amazing last few months and now it is time to build on the momentum,” he further added.
Babar Azam-led Pakistan will lock horns against Nepal in the inaugural match of the Asia Cup 2023 on Wednesday (August 30th) at Multan International Stadium.
However, the most awaited match of the tournament, India vs Pakistan will be played on Saturday (September 2nd) at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Sri Lanka.