16/09/2023
Did you know that Imran Khan, the winner of the 1992 World Cup, also captained Pakistan in the 1983 and 1987 World Cups? Under Imran's leadership, Pakistan reached the semi-finals in both of those tournaments but was defeated by West Indies and Australia, respectively. However, they eventually triumphed in the 1992 World Cup on their third attempt. It's important to remember that captains like Babar Azam need time to develop their teams and strategies while learning from their mistakes.
Babar Azam has already led Pakistan to the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in 2021, the final of the Asia Cup in 2022, and the final of the T20 World Cup in 2022 during his tenure as Pakistan's captain. While it's clear that players like Shaheen Afridi can't be compared to Wasim Akram, and M Rizwan isn't the same as Adam Gilchrist, and Shadab Khan isn't on the level of Shane Warne, it's essential to recognize that every captain has their unique strengths and limitations.
Blaming Babar Azam for every loss has become a pattern among former Pakistani cricketers and certain sections of the media. Whether it's injuries to key bowlers, players participating in franchise cricket, fielding errors, a taxing schedule, or struggles from bowlers and spinners, Babar often bears the blame. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that Babar Azam is a work in progress. He's learning and improving, and we should exercise patience and support for him. With time, he has the potential to lead Pakistan exceptionally well in the 2023 World Cup, and we should all take pride in Team Pakistan's performance under his captaincy.
