Following a disappointing campaign at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup captain of Pakistan Babar Azam opened up about the escalating criticism that is being leveled at the national team.
He admits that criticism is part and parcel of a cricketer's life but said that no one should cross the line and make personal remarks.
Babar has backed all-rounder Shadab Khan for his controversial statement made on former cricketers.
Shadab said :
"Former cricketers have their own opinions. They were legends, but they didn't achieve what we have. We have beaten India in a World Cup. The criticism that is being offered is part of the history of cricket."
Babar backs Shadab says players need to show some respect
Speaking about the issue, Babar added that while it is okay for former cricketers to give their views on the national team, it's unfair to do the same for current players.
Babar said to Zalmi TV:
"They say they are speaking out when it is right and but current player says something, it is not right. Whatever, it is the different ball game, Shadab has said something in the heat of the moment. Everybody have their own ways of talking."
He further stated that the current lot has to stand up for Pakistan in the best way that they can and fighting amongst themselves only goes against Pakistan.
He added:
"But at the end, you are fighting among yourselves. There must be efforts towards support of Pakistan team. Yes, the team hasn't performed well at the T20 World Cup. We know that the team didn't do well."
'Comparisons cannot be drawn between generations'
Babar also shared his thoughts on the comparisons that are being drawn between current players and their predecessors. He said while experience has an edge, comparisons are out of the question.
He added:
"There is no comparison. When we talk about the cricketers of the 90s they are very experienced. They have played a lot of cricket. If they say we are making mistakes, we are making mistakes. But you have to have personal attacks also, where the player will think of a response."
Babar Concluded:
"You can say whatever you want about the game of cricket, but a player also has a respect for themselves. If you don't respect the players they will also show similar attitude towards you,"
Currently it is Babar Azam himself who has to face the music from the critics for his poor strike rate at the T20 format. He has been criticized for his failure to perform at the World Cup with many raising doubts about his ability to fulfill the finisher role in T20 cricket.
Ignoring all the hue and cry Babar will now lead Peshawar Zalmi in the final of Pakistan Super League against Hyderabad Kingsmen. He would look to win his team their second PSL title.
However, his immediate focus is to deliver his side the second PSL title. For now his words stand for them and that is-critics are welcome, respect must be maintained.