Don't create hype around young players after few performances: Babar

Peshawar Zalmi skipper Babar Azam and young Saim Ayub established the second-highest partnership in PSL history of 162 runs. Their partnership helped Zalmi posta record total of 240-2 runs against Quetta Gladiators on Wednesday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

While talking in the post-match conference, the 28-year-old Babar praised Saim and appreciated his thirst to learn more.

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“Saim is playing outstanding cricket throughout the tournament. The best part is that he is improving day by day. He doesn't slacken his grip after two or more innings. The way he is learning new things day by day and improving continuously is commendable. As a captain, of course, I have my eye on Saim and all other young players who have been performing deftly this season because, at the end of the day, we have to keep Pakistan on our top-most priority," Babar said.

When asked about the inclusion of Saim Ayub and Azam Khan in the national team for the upcoming T20 series against Afghanistan, he added.

"It is too early to say this - the focus is on PSL right now. We shall put this forward while discussing international cricket. For now, let them play as much as they can. As a ritual, we create hype around young players after a few performances - so don't do that. It will be in their best favor to play constantly and polish themselves," he added.

Saim played a raging inning of 74 runs off 34 deliveries only. The 20-year-old was crossing the fence all over the ground, before he was caught at extra cover taken at head height by Muhammad Nawaz.