Hafeez wants to help Babar Azam with captaincy

Pakistan recalled the experience pair of Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez for the three Bangladesh Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), which begin on Friday, to strengthen the side and provide depth in the batting department.

On the sidelines of a warm-up match at the iconic Gaddafi Stadium, which hosts the three-T20Is on 24, 25 and 27 January, Hafeez and Malik, who last played for Pakistan in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019, had a conversation on how they looked to make the most of their returns in the Pakistan camp.

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Hafeez in his chat with Malik said that he is eager to impart his knowledge of international cricket to the youngsters, besides helping Babar Azam, the Pakistan captain, in executing his on-field plans effectively. 

 “The best you can do for the next generation of cricketers is to share your experience and that cannot be done with words but with actions. We have learned from our seniors on how to be successful in your cricketing career,” said Hafeez. “There is a pressure of captaincy which you and I have faced in our careers and we can take this off from Babar by putting up performances which can lead Pakistan to victories. We can back his plans and help him in their better execution on the field.”

“It is an added role for us that we have to groom these young cricketers in the side and prepare them for the next 10-12 years,” he added.

The 39-year-old all-rounder is looking forward to the Bangladesh series and ready to give his all for Pakistan.

“It is an honour for me to wear the Pakistan cap. I am eager to wear the Pakistan kit and win matches for my country at this beautiful venue [Gaddafi Stadium],” he said. “I still remember the day when I made my international debut and I still have the same intensity in me. For me, this is not a comeback. I am looking forward to the challenge.”