Babar Azam Backs Shadab Khan's Selection For ICC World Cup 2023, Says, "I Had A One-To-One Chat And Discussion"

Pakistan captain Babar Azam expressed his support for all-rounder Shadab Khan following the latter’s struggles in the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023. Babar Azam emphasized the importance of backing players like Shadab Khan during the challenging phases.

Shadab Khan failed to contribute to Pakistan with both bat and ball during the Asia Cup 2023. The right-handed batter scored 13 runs at an underwhelming average of 4.33. He picked up six wickets at an average of 40.83, including a four-wicket haul against Nepal.

I Believe In All Of Them – Babar Azam

During a press conference in Lahore ahead of the Men in Green’s departure for the ICC World Cup 2023, Babar Azam revealed that he had a brief discussion with Shadab Khan during the Asia Cup 2023.

“I had a one-to-one chat and discussion with Shadab Khan about his performance and I believe we have to back performers like him on their bad days. I agree we have not taken wickets in middle but it is the same guys who used to do well for. I believe in all of them,” Babar told reporters.

There were reports that emerged suggesting Shadab Khan would be removed from the vice-captaincy role. However, the selectors and team management backed Shadab despite his recent poor performances.

I Don’t Make A Lot Of Changes – Babar Azam

Babar Azam emphasized the importance of sticking with the same commitment and not making frequent changes. The skipper said that they established the core players who can perform well for them in the World Cup.

“You see I don’t make a lot of changes and when you keep the players together they start performing well. We have performed well before and we are confident to do well now,” he added.

“When you assemble a team you know there is a core of players. Six to seven players are the ones who can do the job effectively. I know what is the core of this team and will look to do well,” he concluded.

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