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Our mindset is always to play positive and aggressive cricket, says Babar Azam

Pakistan cricket team created history last night in the second ODI against Australia by chasing a target of 349, their highest chase ever

Our mindset is always to play positive and aggressive cricket, says Babar Azam PHOTO COURTESY: PCB

Pakistan cricket team created history last night in the second ODI against Australia by chasing a target of 349, their highest chase ever.

The chase was led by Babar Azam (114) and Imam-ul-Haq (106). They played an instrumental role in the chase. Whereas Fakhar Zaman gave a solid opening stand of 118 runs along with Imam, the game was finished swiftly by Khushdil Shah (27*).

Pakistan chased the total with six balls to spare and won the match by six wickets.

Pakistan captain Babar Azam, was delighted with the team’s performance and praised Australia for their efforts.

“The Australian bowling line is outstanding. They proved it in the last match. Of course, chasing a huge total of 350 gives us a lot of confidence as a team, and as a player, it boosts our morale. We will try to continue with the same momentum.” Babar said during a virtual press conference.

Pakistan was unable to chase a target of 314 in the first ODI, where Australia bowled well despite the dew factor and restricted Pakistan to 225 and defeated them by 88 runs.

“There was less dew in this match compared to the previous game. The wicket played very well throughout the match in both innings and supported the batters and bowlers. We have to perform well in both departments and be consistent with the bat and ball that gives you a boost.” Babar added.

“We had a plan to take the game deep. Partnerships are vital, and with wickets in hand, you have control, and the way Khushdil and Iftikhar finished the game, in the end, was brilliant.” Babar stated.

The skipper of Pakistan spoke about their mistakes while bowling and areas that they should work upon for the upcoming matches. He appreciated the team effort of the boys and revealed the plans for the chase.

“Fakhar and Imam gave us a wonderful start. A hundred run stand at the top helps team gain momentum, and we continued the same momentum.” Babar added.

“I was discussing with Imam in the middle that we have to take the game deep. Wickets in hand give you great confidence and believe that we can do it. Ups and downs are part of the game, but we always believe in winning.” Babar said.

Pakistan failed to chase in the first ODI despite a wonderful century by Imam-ul-Haq. After his dismissal, Babar Azam spoke about his conversation with Imam and appreciated Australia for its challenging performance.

“I was telling Imam in the last game after he got dismissed that you had to take the match deep, and even today, we had the same conversation that takes the match as deep as possible, it will be more beneficial for us,” Babar added.

The right-handed batter mentioned the importance of such a high chase victory and its impact on the team. He further opened up about the mindset and approach of the Pakistan cricket team.

“Past performances give you confidence, and as a team, you believe that we can win from any situation after chasing 350+ in the past,” Babar added.

“Our plan is to play aggressive and positive cricket, and there are some ups and down at times. After eight months, we played ODI cricket, so it takes time to adjust. The way boys played today was outstanding.” Babar stated.”

Babar also commented on the critics and revealed the reason for the harmony of the dressing room that is being witnessed.

“People always have opinions. We don’t focus much on what people say, and we try to keep the negative things away from the team.” Babar concluded.