Misbah slams Azam Khan's discipline, Hafeez criticizes wicketkeeper’s comments

Azam Khan had recently voiced frustration over inconsistent selection in the Pakistan team, emphasized that league cricket provides him with a comprehensive platform to showcase his skills.

"I have always understood that when I play league cricket, I get a complete opportunity because they know I can win them games, so they are calling me here. That means either you [Pakistan coaches] are putting doubts in my mind that I am not good at this level, then it's okay, then I will find my own way," Azam had said.

Misbah-ul-Haq,  who was the head coach when Azam made his Pakistan debut, expressed apprehension about Azam's overall fitness and suggested a need for slight improvement in discipline.

"I'm not suggesting he [Azam] needs to be slim, but his overall fitness should be sufficient for optimal performance in the game. He also needs to slightly improve his discipline," Misbah said.

In a discussion on a local sports show, Hafeez, who recently quit as Pakistan team director, also disclosed that the team management assured Azam that his exclusion was not permanent, despite his lackluster performance in recent matches against New Zealand, which led to his removal after three games.

"I promise you that I gave him total confidence. He was totally looked after and given clarity. Even after he couldn’t perform, I told him that I will look after him and he won’t be forgotten," Hafeez reassured.

Hafeez also shed light on the competitive nature of international cricket, emphasizing the limited opportunities and the swift replacement dynamic. He remarked, "Franchises pick only four foreign players and give you ten games. However, if you don’t perform in international cricket for a few games, there are more guys waiting to take your place."