PAK vs ENG: 'Disappointed' Babar Azam takes responsibility of Pakistan's faulty performance

'I don't think there is any captaincy pressure on me,' says Babar Azam

December 20, 2022
Babar Azam during press conference in Karachi - PCB

KARACHI: The transition from white-ball cricket to red-ball cricket seems quite tough for Pakistan as they suffered first-ever whitewash in a Test series at home. 

After adopting 'Bazball' formula, England rattled Test sides with latest inclusion of Pakistan to their list. The English storm was unstoppable on Karachi shores just like they toppled the hosts in Rawalpindi and Multan. 

Ben Stokes led his team to a convincing whitewash, forcing Pakistan team and captain Babar Azam to take responsibility of their faulty performance. 

Speaking to the media after a bitter defeat in a historic Test series at home, Babar took responsibility and eyes more opportunities to learn as a captain. 

"I am disappointed as a captain. We made mistakes, that's why we weren't able to win," stated Babar. "At the same time, we need to appreciate England team, the way they played throughout," he added. 

For quite some time now, Babar has been facing criticism on his captaincy which people think might also hurting his batting performance. But, Babar thinks otherwise. 

"I don't think there is any captaincy pressure on me, in fact it's an honor. I tried to give my best every time possible," said Babar 

"Being a captain, I am here to defend our performance. I know we made mistakes, but we have a new bunch of players who need some time to transform into a strong team" the skipper highlighted. 

'Injury is an issue'

Babar accepted the fact that injury is an issue in the team. But, he avoided blaming any particular person or department over this matter. 

"Injury unfortunately haunted us throughout," accepted Babar. "We missed our main fast bowlers which might have cost us the series. There is a lot of cricket around the world so it's hard to switch in limited time," he added. 

Players to look forward

Babar sees a bright future of Pakistan in Test cricket. Hence, he believes in giving maximum chances to the current playing XI. 

"Currently, our team is young. We got some really good players in the side including Saud, Shan, Agha and Abrar. We need to back this team and build them for a loger run," said Babar. 

"Doors are open for everyone. We select team according to the situation. If we fail to produce results, then people say a lot of things," he concluded. 

Pakistan will next play two-match home Test series against New Zealand from December 26 in Karachi and Multan. New Zealand will arrive in Pakistan on December 22. 

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