T20 World Cup 2024: ‘Babar Azam should take lessons from Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has commented on Babar Azam's leadership skills, stating that he still has a long way to go in handling pressure.

In an interview with the Press Trust of India (PTI), Latif mentioned that India would be the favourites against Pakistan due to their more balanced squad as the two teams prepare to face off in the T20 World Cup on Sunday in New York.

The India-Pakistan clash is one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the tournament, which is being co-hosted by the USA and the West Indies.

"The focus is on the game on June 9 against India. Babar Azam will be under a lot of pressure because of the game against India rather than performing in the World Cup," Latif said.

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"He has to learn to handle pressure. He should take lessons from Virat and Rohit, who know how to manage the game. As a batter, Babar is one of the best, but as a captain and leader, he has much to learn," he added.

Latif also emphasised India's advantage with their spinners and noted that, based on current form, Rohit Sharma's team is favoured to win on Sunday.

"Kuldeep Yadav is a crucial player for India. If he stays fit throughout the World Cup, he can trouble the batters. He is a key to India's success. Given the current form and statistics, India has the upper hand ahead of 9 June," Latif concluded.

Pakistan will play their T20 World Cup opener against co-hosts the USA on 6 June. They will then face India on 9 June and Canada on 12 June in New York. Their final league match is set for 16 June against Ireland in Florida.