Pakistan’s veteran Test batsman Azhar Ali believes players in the national side are insecure of losing their place after a few bad performances.

While talking to reporters in Karachi on Friday, Azhar said that his advice to young players is to have belief in their ability and play their natural game.

“Insecurity has become a part of our culture, and players do feel insecure that they’ll be dropped after one bad performance but I tell them to have confidence on their own skills. It is important to enjoy when you’re in the middle instead of carrying pressure,” said Azhar Ali

Out-of-form opener Shan Masood, middle-order batsman Haris Sohail and pacer Mohammad Abbas were dropped from Pakistan’s Test squad after a dismal tour of New Zealand.

“Haris Sohail, Mohammad Abbas and Shan Masood have been dropped due to inconsistent performances,” newly-appointed chief selector Mohammad Wasim said while announcing Pakistan Test squad for South Africa series.

“Shan’s bad form has opened doors for Abid Ali’s new partner, be it either Abdullah Shafique or Imran Butt, who was last season’s top scorer. Together with Abdullah, he was in New Zealand with the Shaheens side,” Wasim added.

South Africa will play the first Test at the National Stadium in Karachi from January 26-30. They will then travel to Rawalpindi where the second Test will be held from February 4-8.