Pakistan Skipper Babar Azam stated at a press conference at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday that the team is adopting a new strategy to focus on the future. Azam explained that because of Pakistan's current position in the ongoing World Test Championship, the focus has shifted to preparing for the next championship. To achieve this, six to eight new players have been included in the squad based on their performances in first-class and A team cricket.
Azam said the goal is to provide opportunities for young players to express their talent and move the team forward. He noted that the blend of senior and junior players will provide new energy. As captain, Azam said it is his responsibility to get the best performance from the players, make correct field decisions, use bowlers appropriately, and assign responsibilities based on roles. He added, "We will learn lessons from past performances, focus on the future and try to play positive cricket."
Regarding his own form, Azam said he is working with his coaches to improve in areas where he has not shown desired performance recently. He stated his effort is to perform better through preparation, training, and hard work. When asked about team selection and dropping players, Azam said the selectors and coaches chose the team through mutual consultation after the England tour. He clarified that while selection matters are the domain of the selectors, he provides suggestions and holds consultations with coaches to make the best decisions.
Azam noted that success in the recent tri-nation series has increased team confidence and that he aims to maintain this positive environment. He also addressed expectations for a century at the home ground, stating he aims to give 100 percent performance in every match regardless of his role. He said his responsibility as a senior player is to provide guidance and confidence to youngsters in difficult situations.
Responding to comments from former captain Mohammad Yousuf regarding his batting, Azam called Yousuf a legend and one of the best batters. He said he has not had direct contact with him yet but would learn from him if contacted. He noted that any batter can get out on any ball and that he reviews every mistake to improve.
In a separate statement, Sri Lanka Test captain Kusal Mendis said his team is fully prepared for the Test series against Pakistan after spending more than a month in the country. Mendis said the players have adapted to the conditions and performed well in a practice match. He noted that while Test wickets differ from T20 wickets, his batters are capable of adjusting, specifically mentioning that senior players know how to play on green wickets.
Mendis expressed happiness to lead the side in the longer format, noting that Test cricket is very different from ODI and T20. He stated the team has a very good balance in both bowling and batting, noting that the bowling unit is very senior. Mendis also praised the security, hospitality, and food in Pakistan, stating that everyone is very happy.
The first Test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is scheduled to be played on November 9 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
