Babar Azam's T20I Return Hinges on Spin Mastery and Strike Rate Boost
Pakistan coach Mike Hesson highlights Babar Azam's potential return to the T20I team depends on improving his play against spin and increasing his strike rate. Azam's exclusion from the upcoming tri-series squad comes despite his strong domestic performance. The Asia Cup will begin on September 9, with Pakistan facing Oman.
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- Pakistan
Pakistan's cricket coach Mike Hesson has outlined key areas for star batsman Babar Azam to focus on for a possible return to the T20I format. The coach emphasized the need for Azam to sharpen his skills against spin bowling and improve his strike rate.
Babar, who has not featured in T20 internationals since late last year, was omitted from the squad for the upcoming tri-series against the UAE and Afghanistan, as well as the Asia Cup. Despite a strong start in the ODI series against the West Indies, a lack of consistent high performances led to his exclusion.
Hesson, referring to the former captain's potential involvement in Australia's Big Bash League as an opportunity, remarked on the importance of addressing these specific areas for Azam to make a comeback. The selection criteria also favored players like Sahibzada Farhan, who have consistently performed with higher strike rates in recent matches, a trend Hesson plans to continue.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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