RAWALPINDI — A selfie taken by Pakistan Test cricket team captain Babar Azam at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium—at the request of senior journalist Asghar Ali Mubarak—has gone viral on social media.
It is worth noting that Babar Azam generally avoids taking selfies; in fact, an unpleasant incident occurred recently during a first-class cricket match in Islamabad when he declined a request for one. However, today he appeared quite calm and composed. He shared his thoughts on the future progress of the Pakistan cricket team, noting that his sights are set on the ‘Test World Championship.’
On Sunday morning, Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam held a press conference in the media box at the Pindi Cricket Stadium. Due to it being a Sunday and the early hour—10:30 AM—only a limited number of media personnel were able to attend.
The media engaged in a pleasant, informal conversation with Babar Azam, which concluded with the selfie taken at the request of senior journalist Asghar Ali Mubarak. Babar Azam is quite enthusiastic and confident ahead of the Test series against Sri Lanka; he was dressed in the traditional white Test match attire. When asked why he repeatedly gets out to the same type of delivery, he replied with a smile, “An ‘out’ is an ‘out,’ regardless of the nature of the delivery.” In a press conference, Babar Azam stated that the team will enter the field with a new squad featuring young players. He expressed firm determination to win Test matches on home soil, noting that the series will showcase positive developments, as many new faces have been included in the squad.
“Our message is very clear: we have encouraged them to play their natural game. As for myself, there is certainly room for improvement.
I strive to learn something new every day.” Babar Azam remarked that it is a common occurrence for players worldwide to experience fluctuations in performance—sometimes they perform well, and at other times, they do not. “I put in the hard work, and my mindset is clear. My current performance is not where it ought to be, and I am in ongoing consultation with the coaches regarding this.” Babar Azam stated that his role is to extract performance from the 15 players provided to him; the task of selection lies with those responsible for it. He noted that it is not necessary to disclose every detail, adding that he is focused on his own duties and will strive for the best possible outcome. He further mentioned that whenever his input is sought, he provides it. He emphasized that this series is highly significant for him, both as a captain and as a player.
The trophy for the Pakistan-Sri Lanka Test series was unveiled, with both captains posing for photographs with the trophy at Rawal Lake.
Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka Test Series: The two-match Test series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka begins today. This marks the 60th Test series between the two nations and the 475th Test match for Pakistan since the country’s independence in 1947.
