Pakistan's captain, Babar Azam, opened up about his candid conversation with Shadab Khan following the all-rounder's struggles during the recently concluded 2023 Asia Cup. 

During a pre-departure conference held in Lahore, Babar expressed his commitment to supporting players like Shadab during their challenging phases, emphasizing the importance of standing by them even when they face performance dips.

 “I had a one-to-one chat and discussion with Shadab Khan about his performance and I believe we have to back performers like him on their bad days. I agree we have not taken wickets in middle but it is the same guys who used to do well for. I believe in all of them,” Babar said during the pre-departure conference on Tuesday in Lahore.

Babar believes that maintaining stability within the squad can lead to improved performance over time, citing past successes as evidence. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to excel in future tournaments.

“You see I don't make a lot of changes and when you keep the players together they start performing well. We have performed well before and we are confident to do well now,” he added.

The captain further stressed the importance of a core group of players within the team, indicating that around six to seven individuals form the backbone of the side.

“When you assemble a team you know there is a core of players. Six to seven players are the ones who can do the job effectively. I know what is the core of this team and will look to do well,” he concluded.