Babar Azam: “He’s the best player in the world. He has a very sharp mind. Whenever I talk to him, he gives me great advice”
Image taken by: Bimal Mirwani
Pakistan batsman Babar Azam has hailed Australia’s Steve Smith as the “best player in the world” following their time together with the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL).
Azam said playing alongside the Australian great was a valuable learning experience. He praised Smith, 36, for his cricketing intelligence and willingness to share insights.
The former Pakistan captain’s form has been on the upswing in recent months, delivering consistent runs in international cricket. Considering he is seen as the backbone of the batting line-up, Pakistan will hope Azam continues his resurgence and regains his best form.
“He’s the best player in the world. He has a very sharp mind. Whenever I talk to him, he gives me great advice,” the 31-year-old from Lahore was quoted as saying by TOK Sports on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Azam is currently in action in the 2026 T20 World Cup, where he has scored 66 runs in five matches at an average of 22 and a strike-rate of 115.78.
The men in green progressed to the Super Eights after winning their group stage games against the Netherlands, United States of America and Namibia. Their only loss came against India.
Pakistan’s first Super Eights match against New Zealand was washed out, meaning both sides walked away with a point each.
Next up for them will be a clash against England on February 24 in Pallekele.
Pakistan Squad for 2026 T20 World Cup: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper), Usman Tariq