There has always been a debate about who is the best batter or bowler in the world. And many ex-cricketers and analysts have given their opinions on this topic. However, Pakistani skipper Babar Azam has come up with his own views on the best bowler in the modern era. The skipper of the Men in Green believes that star pacer Shaheen Afridi is among the best in the business and he deserves to be in the top ten across all formats.
During a media interaction in Lahore, Babar said that Shaheen is working hard in all three formats. He also praised the pacer, saying that as a skipper he also wants him to go further in his career. The skipper said, “He is the number one bowler for me, and he will also claim the number one spot in the rankings.” The left-arm pacer also won the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year award for 2021. He also became the youngest cricketer, at 21, to receive the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy. Shaheen is the first and only Pakistani player to receive the honor as well.
Furthermore, the Pakistani skipper spoke about the historic tour of Australia to Pakistan. He said it was a great opportunity for both teams and that it would help other teams visit Pakistan. Pointing out the result, he said that both teams played tough cricket in the series, but the visitors played better cricket. Speaking about the relationship between the players of both teams, he said everyone enjoyed the cricket both on and off the field.
Talking about the ongoing County Championship in the UK, he said that there are a few Pakistani players playing there. Babar Azam has also played a few T20 games in England. He added that playing in those conditions will always help you improve. Furthermore, talking about his early days in cricket, he said that in those days there weren’t many facilities available for the players. But now there are so many options for the youngsters who are looking to play for their country. Babar said, “I’ll advise the kids that whatever game they choose to play, don’t push it on someone else; instead, find your own game and work hard at it.”
The Pakistani skipper concluded the media interaction by speaking about a few other sports he plays. He said that he liked to play golf and some other sports to learn more.