Former national team captain Shahid Afridi has predicted that Babar Azam can become the second batsman to score a double century for Pakistan after opening batsman Fakhar Zaman.
In a video uploaded on his YouTube channel, he said, “I have advised Babar Azam to play long innings because he is not just a 50-run player but has the ability to score 100, 150 and 200 runs instead.” .
{youtube}b4ed073MQxQ{/youtube}
In a message to Babar Azam, he said that you are the backbone of the Pakistani team’s batting line and are scoring regular runs, so keep it up.
He also congratulated Usman Khan Shinwari who won the man of the match award by taking 5 wickets in the second ODI match.
It should be remembered that Babar Azam scored a century in the second ODI match against Sri Lanka and after playing an innings of 115 runs, he came to the third place in the list of players who scored the fastest 11 centuries.
During this innings, Babar Azam became the fastest player to score 1000 runs in a calendar year.
Earlier in 1987, Javed Miandad achieved this feat in the 21st innings, but Babar achieved this feat only in the 19th innings. Misbah-ul-Haq and Muhammad Yousuf are on the third place in this list where both these players won this honor in the 23rd innings.
#Shahid #Afridi #big #Babar #Azam #watch #video #Afridi
**Interview with Shahid Afridi: Babar Azam’s Potential for a Double Century**
**Interviewer:** Shahid, you recently shared your prediction that Babar Azam could become the second batsman to score a double century for Pakistan. What led you to believe he has that capability?
**Shahid Afridi:** Well, I see immense talent in Babar. He has proven that he is not just a player for quick runs, but he has the ability to build long innings. When I advised him to play longer, I meant that he has the skill set to convert starts into big scores—100, 150, and even 200 runs. It’s crucial for him to recognize that potential.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that Babar is the backbone of the Pakistani team. How important is his consistency to the team’s overall performance?
**Shahid Afridi:** Absolutely, it’s vital. Babar is a regular run-scorer, and his performances directly influence the team’s success. If he maintains this form, the pressure on the middle and lower order reduces significantly. He has a unique ability to anchor the innings, which is what Pakistan needs.
**Interviewer:** After his recent innings and achievement of becoming the fastest to 1000 runs in a calendar year, where do you think Babar stands among international batsmen today?
**Shahid Afridi:** Babar is definitely among the elite ranks in cricket today. His achievement speaks volumes about his dedication and skill. The way he has outperformed legends like Javed Miandad in terms of innings taken is impressive. This sets a high benchmark for current and future players.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, you’ve congratulated Usman Khan Shinwari for his performance. What does it take for players like them to keep up the momentum?
**Shahid Afridi:** Players need to keep their head down and focus on their game. Consistency is key. For Usman, taking five wickets is fantastic, but he must build on that performance in future matches and remain focused. That’s how great players are formed.
**Interviewer:** It seems like Babar Azam is on the right path, but do you think the expectations are too high for him? Should the fans temper their hopes with the pressure that comes with it?
**Shahid Afridi:** It’s a double-edged sword, isn’t it? Fans’ expectations can indeed create pressure, but they also serve as motivation. The debate here is about balance. Should we hold him to a high standard due to his ability, or should we allow him the freedom to develop without the fear of failure? I think it’s essential for us to support him through both his highs and his lows.
**Interviewer:** That will definitely get people talking! Thank you, Shahid, for sharing your insights.
