ENG vs PAK: "It Was Hard To Judge Whether He Played As A Batsman Or Bowler": Mohammad Amir Criticizes Babar Azam's Leadership In The T20 World Cup Final
Published - 14 Nov 2022, 01:51 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:14 AM
Former Pakistani speedster Mohammad Amir was shocked by Pakistan skipper Babar Azam’s decision to deny Mohammad Nawaz even one over during Sunday’s T20 World Cup final matchup against England at the MCG.
Shadab Khan and Nawaz of Pakistan appeared to enjoy bowling on the surface, as did Adil Rashid of England, who gained grip and turn from the pitch. Babar didn’t even try to see what Nawaz could do, which raised questions in Amir’s mind about his strategy.
In an interview with 24 News HD, Amir discussed a video in which Babar Azam referred to Nawaz as a “match-winner” and criticized the captain for not living up to his claims. He stated:
“I don’t get Nawaz’s situation. There is a video of Babar telling Nawaz he was the match-winner in the locker room following the first game against India. After that, it was difficult to tell if he was playing as a bowler or a batsman.”
“It demonstrates that you do not have faith in your player. You should follow through on what you say. Nawaz bowls the first over of the Pakistan Super League. He has won matches by himself. He had the opportunity to act today. I couldn’t fathom the decision.”
“The captain should be brave”: Mohammad Amir
In news conferences, Babar Azam has been outspoken about how occasionally the Pakistan squad is subjected to unjust criticism. Amir, however, drew attention to Babar’s errors in leadership and asserted that when such errors are made, people will speak.
“Harry Brook was struggling against Shadab. Nawaz could’ve done something there. But then again, they will say that I criticize a lot” Mohammad Amir said.
“The captain should be brave. You didn’t take brave decisions, and when you lose, these things are visible” Mohammad Amir Added.
Ben Stokes and Sam Curran shone as England defeated Pakistan by five wickets to win the Twenty20 World Cup on Sunday and became the first team to win both the 50-over and 20-over championships in the history of the game.
