Key Takeaways
- Sarfaraz Ahmed, Pakistan’s Test head coach, backs newly appointed captain Babar Azam.
- Babar Azam is set to lead the team in his second stint as captain after replacing Shan Masood.
- Pakistan’s training camp for the West Indies series begins Thursday in Islamabad.
Pakistan Test head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has expressed confidence in Babar Azam, who will begin his second term as captain of the national team. This comes ahead of Pakistan's two-match away Test series against the West Indies later this month.
Babar Azam was previously appointed captain for 20 Tests between 2020 and 2023 but replaced experienced top-order batter Shan Masood on Sunday, who led in 16 Test matches with only four wins during his tenure as captain.
In an exclusive interview earlier this week, Babar Azam stated that it was an honor to lead Pakistan again. He emphasized the lessons learned from his previous captaincy experience and expressed confidence about leading the team with better planning and a positive mindset.
Sarfaraz Ahmed echoed similar sentiments during a media interaction on Wednesday, stating, 'I had a conversation with Test captain Babar, and we expect good results from his captaincy.'
The head coach also confirmed that Pakistan’s training camp for the West Indies series will commence tomorrow in Islamabad. Sarfaraz added, 'Pakistan Test team's training camp begins in Islamabad tomorrow,' highlighting the importance of addressing fitness concerns within the squad.
Sarfaraz further elaborated on the previous training camp where some fitness issues were resolved, while others would be addressed during the upcoming camp. He noted that there was a 2-0 away whitewash against Bangladesh at the start of his tenure but expressed optimism for improved performance under Babar Azam's leadership.
Babar Azam is expected to lead Pakistan with renewed vigor and confidence, aiming to turn around recent form and secure victories in the upcoming Test series. The team’s preparation will be crucial in determining their success against the West Indies.
I had a conversation with Test captain Babar, and we expect good results from his captaincy.
Sarfaraz Ahmed, Pakistan’s Test head coach
Pakistan Test team's training camp begins in Islamabad tomorrow.
Sarfaraz Ahmed, Pakistan’s Test head coach
