Babar sheds light on T20I future

I haven't been able to play long ones as per their expectations, says the Zalmi captain

Former Pakistan captain and current Peshawar Zalmi skipper Babar Azam has spoken about his future in T20 internationals, the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) season, and the constant debate around his batting approach.

In an interview with a local news channel, Babar addressed the speculation surrounding his place in Pakistan's T20I team. He said the final decision about his selection lies with the selectors and coaches, not with him.

"Only the selectors and coaches can answer what they're thinking about my T20 career. My job is to perform — whether it's in T20s, ODIs, or Tests. Selection is not in my control. As long as Allah wills, I will continue to play. We were informed that we were being rested from T20Is — now let's see what they decide," said Babar.

Talking about Peshawar Zalmi's performance in PSL 10, Babar admitted that the team has faced inconsistency in results. He said that while Zalmi had a good start, they couldn't maintain their momentum.

"In the beginning, we tried to build a winning combination and managed two victories, but we need to maintain consistency. Half of the tournament has already passed, and we've lost several matches in phases — sometimes due to batting, other times due to bowling," he said. He pointed out that the team's fielding has been a weak area and stressed the importance of sticking to plans and avoiding mistakes in key moments.

"Our fielding, in particular, hasn't been up to the mark. Regardless of the conditions, we have to play according to the plan. But it's important to ensure we don't lose wickets at crucial moments or drop catches," he added.

On a personal level, Babar acknowledged that fans expect him to play longer innings, and although he enjoys batting, he has not always met those expectations.

"People want to see me stay longer at the crease. Their expectations of me are high. I do enjoy even my short innings, but I haven't been able to play long ones as per their expectations. I make mistakes and try to correct them the next time, but then a new mistake happens—that's how it goes in cricket. What matters most is how focused you are, and I am still very focused," he said.

Babar also responded to frequent criticism about his strike rate and his style of batting. He said he is aware of modern cricket's demands but believes in playing according to the situation.

"I play according to my own game. I'm aware that nowadays there's a lot of talk about strike rate and aggressive play. I know where cricket is heading. I don't need to prove to anyone what kind of player I am—everyone already knows. I always play according to the situation and the team's needs. I'm well aware of the importance of strike rate," he stated.

He also highlighted how often he has adjusted his batting position for the team, stressing that he has always put the team's needs first.

"No one has changed batting positions as much as I have. Whenever someone new comes in, it's Babar who changes his number. Sometimes I go to number three, sometimes I open. For me, Pakistan comes first. The franchise wanted me to open, so I did. Then I play wherever Pakistan needs me," he said.

"I've never had any personal goal that I must play as an opener. I've even opened in Test cricket. I started at number six and moved up and down until I became an opener. I've never said that I won't play at a certain position because my performance might be affected. I'm ready to play at any number according to the team's requirements," he added.

Babar also said he prefers to let his performances on the field do the talking. He believes in working hard rather than responding to criticism off the field.

"I don't like to talk much — I prefer to let my game speak on the field. I know how to speak; everyone can speak. But self-respect also matters. My elders have taught me to respect everyone. My focus is on what I do on the ground. I work hard on the field, and I'm never satisfied with my performance. Even when I was ranked number one, I was never fully content. I always look ahead after performing well and think about my country," he said.