Williamson defends Babar, Rizwan

'PSL experience and joining Karachi Kings has been really nice'

Listen to article

KARACHI:

Former New Zealand captain and Karachi Kings player Kane Williamson has weighed in on the ongoing criticism faced by Pakistan batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan regarding their strike rates in T20 cricket.

With both players often questioned for their conservative approach early in the innings, Williamson offered a balanced perspective, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's role in the team.

In an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Williamson shared his thoughts on the debate surrounding strike rates and batting approach in modern T20 cricket.

"I mean, it's all about what the team requires and trying to win games for your team," he said. "As we've seen in the PSL already, that we've seen scores that have been 230, but we've also seen scores around 140 and 130. So, you know, you have to be adaptable and whoever you are and, you know, ultimately it's what's your role for the team that adds to your team's best performance. And then try and do to the best of your ability, whether on some days it's scoring quicker than others, as long as it's geared towards trying to win games for your side," he explained.

Williamson's remarks highlight the nuanced nature of T20 cricket, where playing conditions and team strategy often dictate a player's tempo.

He revealed the Pakistani cricketer who impressed him the most over the years. Although he is currently only a few days into his Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 campaign, Williamson reflected on his past experiences playing against Pakistan and highlighted one player in particular.

"I've been here only for a couple of days, so, you know, I'm still enjoying watching everybody play. But obviously over the years, having played against Pakistan a lot, I always have enjoyed watching Babar bat. You know, he's an amazing player and a beautiful player to watch," he said.

"So, he's one that I've always enjoyed," he added.

He also spoke about the current Pakistani bowlers who have challenged him the most. Known for his calm and composed approach at the crease, Williamson shared his views on the strength of Pakistan's bowling attack, especially in the fast bowling department.

"Yeah, I mean, they have great depth in fast bowlers, which has always been a strength of Pakistan cricket. So, there are a lot of threats," he said about Pakistan's bowling attack.

"Shaheen has been incredible, especially with the new ball. Then you got the likes of Haris Rauf, who's been a fantastic performer for Pakistan for a long time. So, those are two bowlers that have done really, really well," he added.

The record-breaking New Zealand player sounded excited about playing PSL. "It's great to be back in Pakistan. I've been fortunate to come here for a few series and the champions trophy. I've heard a lot about the PSL from friends of mine that have played in it, like Luke Ronchi who always spoke really highly about the competition, so to be able to experience that and join the Karachi kings has been really nice."

"There were a few things, some prior commitments that were already locked in, and also getting the body right. So it was all kind of part of the picture, but now it's nice to be here, and i've been looking forward to this opportunity," said the master batsman.

"I will stay for the duration of the tournament and hopefully, we will give some good performances and end up in the final, which is obviously the goal.

Speaking about his recent experience of doing commentary in the IPL in India, Williamson said: "It was a good experience, for me at this stage of my career, it was nice to try something a little bit different whilst still playing, and playing right now is the priority. But yeah it was nice to have an experience at the other side of the rope, and it was enjoyable. It's still closely connected to the game that I love and overall it was nice to have that experience for a couple of weeks."