Babar Azam opens up on team combination for Rawalpindi Test

Pakistan’s captain Babar Azam, while talking at a virtual press conference from Rawalpindi on Wednesday, opened up on the expected team combination for the second Test against South Africa that will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi from February 4 to 8.

The prolific batsman revealed that it was unlikely that the team would field four pacers while acknowledging that the weather would play a big role in the final decision.

“The wicket in Rawalpindi seems similar to Karachi. The weather might be a little different though. The conditions here are always different and we are keeping that in mind. We will decide according to the situation on match day. I don’t think four seamers can play here but we will see the conditions and decide what’s best for the team,” said Babar.

“Our preparations have been great. We have spent a lot of time in the nets and the players look to be in good nick. Everyone has gained confidence from our victory in the first Test. We are focused on playing the next match in the same way we played the first match. We can’t take the opposition easy because we know that they can bounce back. We are ready for it,” he added.

The 26-year-old stated that he was enjoying his role as the captain of the Men in Green and praised the support he has received from his fellow teammates.

“I have enjoyed it [captaining the side]. I have received a lot of support. When you have that support and the plans are being executed then as captain things become easier. I have enjoyed it so far and we will keep trying for batter results,” he said.

Pakistan currently lead the two-match Test series against South Africa one-nil after achieving victory in the first Test, which was held at the National Stadium in Karachi, by seven wickets.

The hosts would be itching to repeat their performance in the first Test in order to secure a home series victory against the Proteas.