'We don't need any enemy' - Wasim Akram gives his verdict on Babar Azam's captaincy future

Babar Azam (Source: Twitter)

Pakistan Cricket team has been having a tough time lately as they failed to win a series at home in recent times. Following Pakistan’s dismal run in international cricket, the pressure has increased on the Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who’s facing tough criticism from the media, fans and former players. Babar led Pakistan to the finals of the Asia Cup and the 20-20 World Cup last year but failed to win both.

After the 20-20 World Cup, Pakistan were whitewashed 3-0 in a Test series against England. They further failed to register a win in the two-match Test series against New Zealand as both matches ended in a draw. After the Test series, they also lost to the Kiwis 2-1 in a three-match ODI series.

Despite his individual batting form, Pakistan as a team have failed to replicate Babar's performance. He finished as the highest run-scorer in international cricket in 2022, registering 2598 runs in 52 innings, including a highest score of 196. He also hammered 17 half-centuries and eight tons.

Speaking to Cricket Pakistan, former captain and a legend of the game, Wasim Akram urged everyone to give him time for two-three years and labelled him as 'the best captain'. "Babar Azam's captaincy is under criticism these days; in this difficult time, a strong hand of support came on his shoulder. We don't need any enemy; we are self-sufficient; stop making fun of yourself; if you have Imran Khan, Javed Miandad, or Mike Brierley sitting next to you, then you will understand Babar Azam has a 2-3 years chance. He will prove to be the best captain", stated Akram.

Shaheen Afridi has leadership skills: Wasim Akram

Akram also had special praise for star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi and pointed out that he has leadership skills. "Shaheen Afridi has leadership skills, but there is no need to hurry, he made Lahore Qalandars PSL champions, but now he is the national team", said the Pakistan legend.

After the completion of the ODI series against New Zealand, Pakistan will now resume their international cricket against New Zealand in April. They will play a five-match T20I series starting April 13^th at home followed by a five-match ODI series against the same opponents.