Shan Masood has voiced his belief in star batter Babar Azam's ability to excel in the upcoming home series against England, insisting that Babar doesn't seem to be struggling with form and remains the team's premier batsman. The series, which kicks off on October 7 in Multan, is vital for Pakistan from both an ICC World Test Championship perspective and for evaluating the performance of their most accomplished player. Over his last eight Tests, Babar has faced challenges, managing only 317 runs at an average of 21.13, without a single fifty; his highest score in this stretch has been just 41.
Shan Masood Supports Babar Azam
"Babar is among the world's best batters. You have to give your players time, not just Babar. Babar does not look out of form, he is getting starts. There was a 10-month gap between the Australia and Bangladesh Tests, which does not help us." Masood said speaking to ESPNcricinfo
"He played some long innings in the Champions [One-Day] Cup where he absorbed pressure and changed gears. That might help him in tests now. He is the team's number one batter for sure," he added.
Babar Azam was brilliant for Pakistan during the Champions Cup; he played four games and scored 230 runs at an average of 76.66 with a strike rate almost reaching 99 and a century and half-century to his name, his top score being 104* not out. He ended up being the fourth-highest run-scorer for the Stallions.
No Lack Of Unity In Pakistan Team, Says Masood
Masood also dismissed all the claims about 'lack of unity' in the Pakistan Team.
"Every captain has their own style. I focus on keeping the environment in the dressing room well; that is my primary concern. I have never seen a lack of unity or effort by the boys. There are some cricketing aspects to how we need to improve, but I have no complaints regarding unity," he concluded.
Pakistan has been consistently failed to deliver results due to which it has fallen to eighth place in ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 standings after a shocking defeat against Bangladesh.