Finals have a different kind of pressure: Babar Azam ahead of PSL 11 final
By Nawaz Gohar ; Peshawar Zalmi captain Babar Azam has said that his team has played excellent cricket throughout the season and will need to deliver their best performance to win the final.
Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, Babar emphasized that the pressure of a final is distinct, and performing in a stadium filled with fans presents a unique challenge. While every match carries pressure, the significance and intensity of a final are of a different nature.
He noted that every team operates with a specific mindset. Peshawar Zalmi has enjoyed success against various teams throughout the tournament. While the team’s momentum is positive, conditions in Lahore and Karachi vary, and plans do not always unfold as expected.
He added that the team has kept its strategy simple, though circumstances sometimes require players to adapt their style at different batting positions. He also credited former captain Misbah-ul-Haq for guiding the batting line-up with his experience.
The Peshawar Zalmi captain praised the foreign players, noting that individuals like Michael Bracewell and Kusal Mendis have proven crucial for the team. He also highlighted the stellar performances of the local players.
Regarding young talent, Babar singled out Ali Raza and Farhan Yousuf as future stars, adding that emerging players across all teams have displayed impressive skills. On the topic of criticism, Babar remarked that there isn’t much one can do about it, but acknowledged that scoring well significantly boosts a player’s confidence.
Addressing a question about the national team, Babar stated that there is no shortage of talent in Pakistan; it simply needs to be identified and nurtured, noting that the requirements for the national team are different from league cricket.
When asked about what he considers a “winning total,” he responded jokingly that he is not an astrologer, and the actual conditions will only be clear on the day of the match.
Regarding his own role, he stated that he strives to perform whatever role is assigned to him in the best possible manner, having played mostly as an opener thus far.
When asked about potentially taking on the national team captaincy again, Babar gave a measured response, saying that if such an offer were to be made, it would be considered later.
