Pak vs SA: I want players to give 100% without fear of any consequences, Babar Azam

Ahead of the two-match Test series between Pakistan and South Africa, Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam wants his team to appear “fearless” and “aggressive”.

Speaking to Ramiz Raja recently, Babar Azam said that he wants players to give 100% on the ground without fear of any consequences.

“I want the team to play positive but aggressive and fearless cricket, especially in white-ball cricket if we want to challenge top teams,” he said.

“Usually we stop scoring runs if we lose one or two quick wickets and this is where I want the team’s mindset to change — even if you’ve lost two quick wickets, you must continue to add numbers to the scoreboard,” he added.

The captain went on to add, “I was struggling, especially with red-ball cricket but Mickey supported me and kept backing me, which gave me confidence. It also made me realise how important it is for a player to be backed by team management when he’s struggling.”

“I am going to apply the same. I will support my players,” he said.

Azam said further, “When you’re in the ground, you’re there for Pakistan and Pakistan should come first, [we are not] friends there. All your relations with individuals should be kept out of the ground.”

“South Africa Will Be A Serious Challenge For Us”

Earlier in a day, Batsman Azhar Ali has in his statement said, “South Africa is a very strong side”.

“Their bowling line-up is very strong – not only the fast bowlers but their spinners are also up to the mark, especially Keshav Maharaj.”

“They’re very seasoned and experienced so they’ll pose a serious challenge to our team. We will have to be our best against them.”

Azhar Ali further added, “Home condition is always beneficial for any team,”

“Our performances in the last two home series were very good and our batsmen are also in good form. They’ve been scoring some runs in the away series as well, individually, despite difficult conditions. Babar has also returned to the side and it will boost our batting line. I am confident that our batting will do well in the series against South Africa.”

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