Babar talks current equation with Shaheen, reveals strategy for NZ series

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Pakistan cricket team captain Babar Azam has expressed his commitment to team unity and the broader goal of putting Pakistan's cricketing reputation first, emphasizing the strong bond between him and teammate Shaheen Afridi.

In a press conference ahead of the T20I series opener against New Zealand in Rawalpindi, Babar addressed questions regarding his relationship with Shaheen Afridi, asserting that their bond is longstanding and rooted in mutual support.

"I want to make clear that Shaheen [Afridi] and my bond is not recent, it goes back a long way. We support each other in every situation. Our aim is to put Pakistan first, and how to put Pakistan's name up in lights. We don't think of individual glory, and thankfully, those elements are not present in my team," Babar said.

Babar also spoke about the potential of young players in the team, encouraging Usman Khan and other emerging talents to continue their hard work and strive for excellence.

"Usman needs to keep doing the things that got him here. We put expectations on every player. I expect certain things from myself as well as my players. It pleases me when a young player gets an opportunity and the senior players back him. We try and take young players under our wings because when you come to international cricket, you initially struggle and need support and confidence. And then those players go on to serve Pakistan," he further added.

Babar emphasized the flexibility in the team's lineup and the importance of providing opportunities to young players and bench strength. He highlighted the team's focus on exploring different combinations to identify the best fit for the upcoming World Cup.

"Our line-up is flexible. We're trying to give opportunities to our young players and bench strength. You'll see different combinations in this series and check what works for us. You'll see that in the bowling as well as batting, and in every spot. By the time we get to the Ireland and England series, we'll have a clearer picture," Babar stated.

Babar underscored the team's dedication to performance-based selection and the challenges of assembling a strong playing XI given the abundance of talent in Pakistan cricket.

"I always believe the players we have here are here on the basis of performance. Sometimes it becomes difficult when you have so much talent at your disposal to produce a playing XI. We try and do the best for Pakistan. All of this is preparation for the World Cup and it all starts tomorrow," he further said.

Babar emphasized the team's immediate focus on the New Zealand series while also providing some perspective on the upcoming T20 World Cup squad.

"Right now, our focus is on the New Zealand series, but the World Cup squad will almost consist of the same players. You never know what happens next because there is a lot of time for it," Babar said.

Babar acknowledged the fluidity of team selection for the World Cup and the importance of leaving room for potential changes as circumstances evolve.

"We would have days even after announcing the squad for the World Cup. No one is 100% sure to make the squad. We will try to make sure that the best team is selected," he concluded.