Pakistan’s Rankings In Test, ODIs And T20Is Is Not Acceptable: Babar Azam

If rankings are anything to go by, Babar Azam’s task would be an uphill one as the captain of the limited-overs teams of Pakistan. A few weeks ago, having been handed over the reins of the ODIs as well, former cricketers Rashid Latif and Shoaib Akhtar slammed him for not speaking about Pakistan’s improvement in performances. In an interview with Cricket Pakistan, Babar Azam has his say on his side’s rankings across formats.

Also Read: Former Pakistan Batsman Taufeeq Umar Contracts COVID-19

The 25-year-old has expressed a sheer disappointment as far as their standings are concerned. The men in green are ranked seventh, sixth, and fourth in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is respectively. Earlier this month, Pakistan held the top spot in T20Is before Australia dethroned them. They had the spot for 27 months.

Expressing his displeasure over rankings, the 25-year old remarked that they would give their everything to go up the ladder. The newly-appointed ODI skipper also emphasised the need for creating a host of match-winners instead of being highly dependent on individuals.

“Pakistan’s rankings in Test, ODIs and T20Is is not acceptable and we will try our best to improve that. We also need to focus on making a good team rather than just relying on individuals.”

We miss playing cricket, and I’m sure the fans do as well: Babar Azam

Talking about the current lockdown situation in most countries due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 25-year old admits that life hasn’t been easy. He mentioned that it is disheartening for everything to come to a sudden halt as the team and fans miss the sport.

From the team’s perspective, Babar Azam had been looking forward to the Test matches and the T20 World Cup. The T20 World Cup, which was initially scheduled to take place in Australia, is likely to get deferred. An official announcement from the ICC regarding the same might follow soon. Meanwhile, despite the COVID-19 crisis, Pakistan would most likely tour England for Test and white-ball cricket in August.

“Obviously when you are playing cricket regularly, it becomes disheartening to stop all of a sudden. We do whatever when can to maintain fitness and practice at our home. We miss playing cricket and I’m sure the fans do as well. “It’s disappointing that we have been in lockdown for the past couple of months because we were looking forward to the cricket planned during the year. We had important Test matches as well as the T20 World Cup.”

Also Read: Anil Kumble Believes ‘Saliva Ban’ Temporary Measure To Control Covid-19 Situation