‘More than SKY, I am inspired by…’ PSL phenomenon Azam Khan talks about his comparison with Suryakumar Yadav

Azam Khan-Suryakumar Yadav (Source: Twitter)

In the Pakistan Super League (PSL) game against Quetta Gladiators on Friday, Azam Khan put in yet another outstanding performance, scoring a mammoth 97 runs. Azam scored 97 off 42 balls while smashing nine fours and eight sixes as Islamabad United built 220 for six against Quetta before dismissing the opponents for just 157. He was instantly compared to Suryakumar due to his wide shot variety and potent hitting skills. Islamabad United was able to win the game easily with the help of this knock.

Azam's explosive performance quickly led to comparisons between the PSL phenomenon and Suryakumar Yadav, an Indian cricket standout who is now ranked No. 1 in the world in T20I cricket. Nevertheless, the Pakistan batter responded to the "unique" comparative statement made by former Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq. He spoke about someone else inspires him rather than Suryakumar Yadav

What were the comments made by Misbah and how did Azam respond?

Former Pakistan batter Misbah-ul-Haq spoke on Samaa TV about Azam Khan and his comparison with Indian team sensation Suryakumar Yadav. He said, “We talk about Suryakumar Yadav, he plays new shots, explores the areas of the ground where one can't even think that the shots would go. But the way Azam played yesterday, the way he hit some shots over point and extra cover, and the shot that he developed over fine leg and square leg… it was something very special.”

The batter in a video posted by Pak.tv spoke about the Pakistan icon’s comment and said he is inspired by someone else. He said, “The position I bat at, you know the situation is quite different and more difficult. Either the score is about 40 for four or 180 or 160 for two, so then you need to just go and finish the match. But I am more inspired by Tim David. He hits big shots and I know and understand his batting role because I bat at the same position. Suryakumar often plays one down which is like top order.”