Babar Azam focused on playing 'modern-day cricket' ahead of South Africa ODIs

Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam, while talking at a virtual press conference on Thursday, claimed that the Men in Green were focused on playing ‘modern-day cricket’ ahead of the upcoming One-Day International (ODI) series against South Africa.

The prolific batsman believed that a flurry by the finishers in the side could lead Pakistan to scores above 300.

“We haven’t had a lot of ODIs since the World Cup [2019]. We are trying to play ‘modern-day cricket’ for the upcoming event. We will try to gain the necessary points through the series against South Africa. We will start strong. If our finishers fire, we can reach a total above 300,” Babar said.

“It is all about the momentum and we are working on our power-hitting. The players are learning. It is also about taking responsibility. Contributions from the top four are always vital. We will also have to rotate the strike. Fakhar Zaman, Imamul Haq and Mohammad Rizwan are in great form and we will see the difference,” he added.

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The 26-year-old further stated that Pakistan would opt for a fearless approach going forward.

“We will try to play fearless cricket. We will try certain combinations for longer which will bear results. Our bowling has the ability to restrict any side below 300. Faheem Ashraf and Shadab Khan bring results through their exciting batting. The coaches are working hard towards improving strike rates,” he said.

The first ODI between South Africa and Pakistan will be played on Friday, April 2, in Centurion.