Babar Azam: “If I can be number one in the world without power hitting, then I don’t need power hitting! But when I need to, I utilise it well”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has pointed out that he is capable of being a power hitter as he practices hitting big shots and utilises it when the situation arises.

Azam’s comments come as concerns have been raised about the lack of big hitters in Pakistan’s World Cup squad.

Most notably, Pakistan left out Asif Ali, who excelled during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) as he accumulated 281 runs in 12 games for Islamabad United, which included two half-centuries, at an average of 35.12 and an incredible strike-rate of 182.46.

“If I can be number one in the world without power hitting, then I don’t need power hitting! But when I need to, I utilise it well,” Azam was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. “I don’t just play along the ground. I practice hitting the ball big and when needed, I use it.

“My role is to play out the full overs. My individual role is to take the innings as deep as I can and perform in a way that benefits the team most of all.”

Pakistan will kick off their World Cup campaign against the West Indies in Nottingham on May 31.

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